Raleigh, NC – Winnipeg Jets' prospect Thomas Milic is set to make his NHL debut tonight against the Carolina Hurricanes. The 22-year-old goaltender, drafted in the fifth round (151st overall) of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, has been backing up Eric Comrie since Connor Hellebuyck underwent arthroscopic knee surgery.
Milic's debut comes during a challenging time for the Jets, who are currently on a three-game losing streak and sit outside the playoff picture with a 12-10-0 record. The team is hoping Milic can bring a spark as they continue their five-game Eastern Conference road trip.
Prior to his call-up, Milic was having a strong season with the Manitoba Moose in the American Hockey League (AHL), posting a 5-2-2 record with a 2.14 goals-against average, a .921 save percentage, and one shutout. "It was super special, right after our game the other night with the Moose, getting called into the coach's (Mark Morrison's) office and hearing the news then,” Milic said. “It was a shock, but I am excited and I couldn't stop myself from smiling. I am trying to stay grounded and enjoy every second".
Before turning pro, Milic had a standout career in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Seattle Thunderbirds. He also gained experience with the Norfolk Admirals in the ECHL, where he played 18 games in 2023-24, achieving an 11-3-2 record with two shutouts, a 2.45 goals-against average, and a .908 save percentage. He further solidified his reputation with the Admirals last season, recording an 11-5-2 record, three shutouts, a 1.82 goals-against average, and a .935 save percentage in 18 games. During the 2025 Kelly Cup Playoffs, Milic played in nine games, posting a 5-4 record with three shutouts, a 1.61 goals-against average, and a .945 save percentage.
Milic's journey to the NHL also includes representing the Admirals in the 2024 Warrior/ECHL All-Star Classic in Savannah. He is the 75th player to reach the NHL after appearing in the All-Star Game, and the 59th since 2002 when the format was changed to feature younger prospects.
Jets' coaching staff have expressed confidence in Milic's abilities. "We are not replacing Connor but, at the end of the day our group has to be really good in front of Comrie and good in front of Milic, as well,” a team official stated.
Facing the Hurricanes, who boast a 14-6-2 record and rank third in the league with 3.50 goals per game, Milic's first NHL start will be a significant test. However, his track record of success at various levels, combined with his recent strong performance in the AHL, suggests he is ready for the challenge. "Comrie is going to hold down the fort, but I will be ready when I get my chance and I am just excited for it,” Milic said.
The Jets and their fans will be watching closely as Milic takes the ice, hoping his debut marks the start of a successful NHL career and helps the team turn their current struggles around.
