Lee Stempniak set for Jets debut

The Winnipeg Jets added a measure of forward depth prior to Monday's trade deadline in the form of Lee Stempniak, and the former Ranger will make his debut with the club Wednesday against Ottawa.

Stempniak practiced on a line with Adam Lowry and Blake Wheeler, and head coach Paul Maurice is confident the new addition can help at both ends of the ice.

"(Stempniak can be) a bit of a conduit between (Wheeler and Lowry)," Maurice told NHL.com. "He's a responsible defensive player, but he can make some plays and create a little bit more. He has some confidence around the net."

Stempniak recorded nine goals and nine assists in 53 games for the Rangers and will now be counted on to help the Jets secure a playoff spot in the ultra-competitive Western Conference.