Winnipeg Jets forward Parker Ford makes his NHL Debut tonight against the Boston Bruins.
The Wakefield, Rhode Island native was signed to an entry-level contract on March 25th, 2023 after he finished his college career with Providence College. He scored 94 points (41G, 53A) in 131 NCAA games.
As a rookie in the American Hockey League (AHL) last season, Ford posted 41 points (18G, 23A) in 72 games. This season, he has 17 points (11G, 6A) in 36 games and has a plus-minus of minus-three on a Moose team that sits in the basement of the AHL.
The 24-year-old undrafted forward brings intensity to the Jets’ fourth line and will look to use his excellent speed and aggressive forecheck. Listed at 5-foot-9 and 181 pounds, Ford plays like a bigger player and excels using his frame.
Lambert, who was previously recalled to be the 13th forward for Winnipeg is joined by his Moose teammate.
This is Ford’s second-ever recall to the NHL with his first being in the final NHL game of the 2023-24 season where he was recalled with Brad Lambert and Nikita Chibrikov where he dressed in warmups but didn’t make his NHL debut.
Having played college hockey in Providence and is from the Rhode Island area, this is certainly a dream for Parker to get his first NHL game against the Boston Bruins.
The last time that the Jets and Bruins faced off was in late December at Canada Life Centre where tempers flared as the Jets paid an 8-1 beatdown on the Bruins. The Jets will keep a close eye on Trent Frederic, who fought David Gustafsson which led to Gustafsson being out of the lineup for a little while.
Ford skated with Gustafsson and Alex Iafallo during this morning’s practice and it is assumed that this is what the Jets’ fourth line will look like tonight with Morgan Barron on injured reserve.
Puck drop at TD Garden is set for 6:00 pm CST between the Jets and the Bruins.
ITR 46: Offseason Chaos – Inside The Rink
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