Untimely Injury Keeps Jets Prospect Out 8-12 Weeks

What looked like a routine play and a slightly awkward hit from Ottawa Senators defenseman Erik Brannstrom, Ville Heinola, one of the Jets’ top defensive prospects been placed on injured reserve with a fractured ankle.

This injury is untimely as Heinola was on the cusp of achieving an NHL roster spot, not just the seventh defenseman roster spot either. Heinola would’ve likely been on the Jets’ third defensive pairing, but he played his heart out during the preseason, which likely earned him a spot for the 2023-24 season.

Injury Timeline & What This Means For Heinola

The Winnipeg Jets have placed defenseman Ville Heinola on injured reserve with a fractured ankle. The timeline is expected to be anywhere from 8-12 weeks, however, Heinola is expected to miss at least eight weeks.

Rick Bowness commented on Heinola’s injury after the Jets team skated on Friday, October 6th. Bowness mentioned the timeline and that the next steps, including surgery, are still being contemplated. As for right now, Heinola is being sent home to Finland to be around family.

Hopefully Heinola is able to make a quick recovery, given the circumstances, we could potentially find him in the NHL later in the year. However, at this moment, Ville Heinola may not find himself in the NHL for a longer while.

Samberg's Contract, Jets Outlook, Moose Watch, and Bombers Trouble (01) – Jacko Media

In this week's episode of the Jacko Media Show, Conrad Jack breaks down the developments around Dylan Samberg's arbitration filing and what it means for the Winnipeg Jets as they prepare for the 2025-26 season. What does Samberg’s contract battle tell us about the team’s direction? And how does it impact Winnipeg’s defensive depth?We also take a broader look at the Jets' offseason moves and what storylines are already brewing ahead of puck drop. From player development to potential breakout stars, Conrad gives his take on where the team stands now and what fans should watch for come training camp.Shifting gears to the AHL, the spotlight turns briefly to the Manitoba Moose as we look at their early storylines and how they fit into the larger hockey picture in Winnipeg. What can we expect from the Moose this year, and how will their younger core contribute to the Jets pipeline?Finally, the focus briefly turns to the CFL’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Have they reached the beginning of the end of their dominant run? After a rocky stretch, questions are swirling about depth, age, and whether the team can still contend. Conrad shares his thoughts on what’s gone wrong and whether there’s time to right the ship.