In this way, Winnipeg improves three lines with the return of one player. Consider the first thought Arniel offered about Vilardi’s impact Tuesday. When asked how Vilardi would help Winnipeg in Game 5, Arniel gave his entire response without talking about Vilardi at all.

Winnipeg Jets forward Gabriel Vilardi, 25, will return from a monthlong absence and play in Game 5 of the first round of the playoffs against the St. Louis Blues Wednesday, as his club looks to take a 3-2 lead.

Gabriel Vilardi returns to the Jets’ lineup for Game 5, offering a potential boost as Winnipeg faces the St. Louis Blues in a tied series.