Eight points separate the St. Louis Blues and Winnipeg Jets in the Central Division, but a win for Winnipeg would close that gap to six points. A St. Louis win would increase that margin to 10 points.

The two teams match up quite well against each other, and while Blake Wheeler hesitated to call it a rivalry, there won't be any love lost between these two clubs. After the morning skate, the contract status of Dustin Byfuglien and Andrew Ladd came up following reports on the two players' contract asks.

Head coach Paul Maurice said the two Jets stars' future isn't uncertain.

"They're playing tonight and they are getting paid today. They've got a contract. They're Winnipeg Jets. Any thoughts or mindset beyond that, that distraction question, it's my job to make sure that this team is focused enough about the game here tonight." said Maurice.

Jets captain Andrew Ladd talks about the tall of the St. Louis Blues and what the team needs to do to start winning games in the Central Division. 1:23 Jets captain Andrew Ladd talked about what the team needs to do to start winning games in the Central Division.

Forward Blake Wheeler discusses how contract negotiations are inevitable and a part of the business. He also talks about the teams struggles against teams in their divisions. 1:51 Forward Blake Wheeler said contract negotiations are inevitable and part of the business. He also talked about the team's struggles against their division rivals.