1. Seth Jarvis
2. Nic Demski
3. Brady Oliveira

Jonathan Toews, Mark Stone, Nolan Patrick and now Seth Jarvis. It’s almost like NHL star power is in the water in Winnipeg.

It might be a little early to list Jarvis with those names, but even though he’s only in his second season, and on a team other than the Jets, he’s already a hometown favourite.

Picked 13th overall in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft by the Carolina Hurricanes, Jarvis burst onto the scene as a 19-year old rookie in 2021, scoring 17 goals and 40 points in his first season, building on his early success with eight points in 14 playoff games.

I recently had the opportunity to see Jarvis play in person against his hometown team on Nov. 21. It was a 4-3 Jets win in overtime, and the arena had dozens of Jarvis jerseys.

He may have only had an assist in the game, but his presence was certainly felt. He almost scored in overtime, and when the puck just missed the net, you could hear more gasps of disappointment than relief.

It’s no wonder that such a talented player would be named Winnipeg’s favourite local athlete, but I think what makes Jarvis endearing to many fans is his down-to-earth attitude and optimism.

For example, what was the first thing Jarvis was excited to buy when he signed his threeyear $832,500 annual contract?

“I want to get my mom a car, just to show her appreciation. That’s the first thing on my list.” Jarvis, said, as reported by Paul Friesen of the Winnipeg Sun.

It’s that kind of humble star that us “Friendly Manitobans” love.

Published in Volume 77, Number 12 of The Uniter (December 1, 2022)