After losing to the Vegas Golden Knights in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs last year, the Winnipeg Jets have revived their team identity and have a good locker room culture this year.
Vilardi was asked if there are any big surprises this year for the Jets:
I don't think there's been any big surprises. Just the culture here is amazing. I love it here. It's been great so far and the guys are really tight-knit. It's been fun so far.
Vilardi is an important piece for the Jets short-term and long-term future
The Jets acquired Vilardi as part of the return for Pierre-Luc Dubois, who was dealt to Los Angeles in the offseason. Vilardi scored 23 goals and 41 points in 63 games last year for the Kings and looks to be a big part of the Jets' offense this year as they attempt to make the playoffs for the second straight season.
Vilardi has one point in the first two games of the 2023-24 season.