The former Saginaw standout is hitting new heights in his NHL career, blending offensive flair with defensive maturity to help drive the Jets’ playoff push.
Scoring the latest Game 7, game-tying goal in NHL history and the second latest game-tying goal in Stanley Cup Playoffs history on Sunday night, Cole Perfetti’s miraculous goal in the final seconds (19:57) busted the doors of belief wide open for the Winnipeg Jets.
Perfetti has emerged not just as a promising young forward but as a linchpin in the Jets’ offensive machinery. The 23-year-old centre from Whitby, Ont., has steadily evolved from a high-scoring junior phenom into a mature, two-way NHL contributor, blending finesse with a newfound grit that has become emblematic of his game.
From junior sensation to professional mainstay
Perfetti’s ascent began with the Saginaw Spirit in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), where he quickly established himself as a prodigious talent. In his rookie season (2018–19), he tallied 37 goals and 74 points over 63 games, setting a new franchise record for rookie goals. His sophomore campaign was even more impressive, amassing 111 points (37 goals, 74 assists) in 61 games, leading to his selection as the CHL Scholastic Player of the Year in 2020, recognizing his excellence both on the ice and academically with a 93% average.
Drafted 10th overall by the Winnipeg Jets in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, Perfetti transitioned to the professional ranks with the Manitoba Moose in the AHL during the pandemic-shortened 2020–21 season. He notched 26 points (nine goals, 17 assists) in 32 games, earning the team’s Rookie of the Year honours.
NHL evolution: Crafting a complete game
Since making his NHL debut in the 2021–22 season, Perfetti has shown consistent growth. After recording 7 points in 18 games during his inaugural season, he improved to 30 points in 51 games in 2022–23. The 2023–24 season saw him achieve career highs with 19 goals and 38 points over 71 games. In the current 2024–25 season, Perfetti has continued his upward trajectory, amassing 50 points (18 goals, 32 assists) across 82 games, marking a new personal best.
Beyond the raw numbers, Perfetti’s development into a reliable two-way player has been noteworthy. His commitment to defensive responsibilities and physical play has complemented his offensive skills, making him a more versatile and dependable presence on the ice.
A defining highlight of Perfetti’s regular season came on January 24, 2025, when he recorded his first NHL hat trick in a 5–2 victory over the Utah Hockey Club. This performance not only ended a personal scoring drought but also ignited a franchise-record 11-game winning streak for the Jets, propelling them to the top of the NHL standings.
Perfetti’s ability to elevate his play during critical moments has been instrumental in the Jets’ success. His contributions have solidified his role as a key figure in the team’s pursuit of playoff contention and have underscored his value as a core component of Winnipeg’s roster.
International experience and leadership
Perfetti’s international résumé is equally impressive. He represented Canada at the 2021 World Junior Championship, recording six points in seven games en route to a silver medal. Later that year, he joined the senior national team at the IIHF World Championship, contributing two goals in ten games and helping Canada secure a gold medal.
These experiences have not only enriched Perfetti’s skill set but have also fostered a sense of leadership and composure that he brings to his NHL play. His exposure to high-stakes international competition has honed his ability to perform under pressure, a trait that benefits the Jets during pivotal game situations.
Looking ahead: A pillar for the future
As the Winnipeg Jets continue to build towards sustained success, Cole Perfetti stands out as a foundational piece of their strategy. His blend of offensive acumen, defensive reliability, and maturity beyond his years positions him as a future leader within the organization.
With each passing season, Perfetti’s trajectory suggests not only personal accolades but also a significant impact on the Jets’ aspirations for championship contention. His journey from a standout junior player to a multifaceted NHL contributor exemplifies the development path that franchises aim to cultivate, making him a model for aspiring professionals and a beacon of promise for Winnipeg’s hockey future.