Winnipeg Jets begin season with 4-3 OT loss to Boston

The Winnipeg Jets began their hockey season with a thrilling 4-3 overtime loss to the Boston Bruins on Friday night. The game was a back-and-forth affair featuring strong goaltending, a record-extending goal, and even a fight. JJ Paterka scored the winning goal with 1:39 left in overtime, lifting Boston to the victory. The Jets came out strong in the first six minutes of play, outshooting the Bruins 8-1.

They had a power play opportunity that nearly broke the ice and had several good scoring chances, including a notable play by rookie Viggo Bjorck. With just over two minutes into the game, rookie Dylan DeMelo scored his 17th goal of the season, one-timing a wobbly puck past Boston's goaltender Jeremy Swayman. Shortly after, Tyrel Bauer, making his NHL debut, fought Mark Kastelic, which resulted in Kastelic bleeding.

The Bruins took the lead with a goal similar to DeMelo's, scored by Hampus Lindholm. With just under five minutes left in the first period, Boston took a 2-1 lead when Kastelic scored his first NHL goal of his career. The Jets fought back in the second period, tying the score when Kyle Connor slid the puck to Cole Perfetti, who shot it past Swayman.

Connor extended his NHL record with his ninth straight season opener goal. Winnipeg had a two-period lead going into the third, but couldn't capitalize on a power play opportunity. Boston came back strong, scoring the equalizing goal with 1:38 left in the third period. Connor again came close to scoring the go-ahead goal but his shot hit the post.

In overtime, JJ Paterka buried a goal past Swayman, securing the win for the Bruins. The Jets' next game is scheduled for Sunday afternoon in Detroit.