Being a Winnipeg Jets fan these days isn’t easy for everyone.
Sure, the team is off to a hot start and will in all likelihood be competing for another shot at the Stanley Cup Final come June (knock on wood). But to put it bluntly, living in Toronto while the fun is happening in the Peg just takes away from the whole ‘Jets fan’ experience. From my own experiences, I’m going to tell you some pretty annoying reasons why it’s tough being a member of Jets Nation in the 6ix (a part of me wants to throw up every time I write that last word).
1) That Auston Matthews guy
Okay, so Auston Matthews is off to a historical start. Every Leafs fan I know has been pretty quick to identify that he’s leading the league in points and is on track to capture his first Art Ross Trophy. And yes, I’m fully aware that he’s outscoring Laine on a nightly basis. But do you all really have to rub it in that much? “Matthews > Laine” has basically become the most obnoxious narrative in sports. Some years Laine is going to do well (let me remind everyone that he sniped 44 last year) and others Matthews will outscore him. That’s just the way things are going to work, just move on with your lives people.
2) The fans
I honestly tip my hat off to Leafs nation. Their dedication to the white and blue is quite admirable and in many ways respectable. Buttttttt I’m not letting them off that easy.
Aside from the Matthews vs. Laine debate, Buds fans just can’t seem to shut up about their players. They can make a win feel like a Stanley Cup victory and a loss feel like the world just came crashing down. Leaf fans: not everyone cares about your team, okay? Whether it’s in person or online, just keep your thoughts about the squad to yourselves.
Gerry Angus/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
3) The whole Mitch Marner look-a-like thing
Some readers probably have an idea about who I am but I’m sure a lot of you don’t. Over time there’s been a pretty popular gag that I look like Mitch Marner. But I just want to make something clear for everyone: Mitch Marner looks like ME, okay? Not vice versa. Sure, neither of us can grow facial hair (I’m 25 btw) but I’m his senior and that should mean at least something.
Besides, the resemblance isn’t all that clear... is it?
The Jets are gearing up to face the Leafs tonight (AND SATURDAY!) so please Patty, Wheels, Scheif, Buff. Pleaseeeeeeee get a W, because it’s going to be a LONG week here if you don’t earn at least one.
