Paul Maurice delivered a pointed message to the San Jose Sharks players who had negative things to say about the city of Winnipeg last weekend.
Without necessarily singling out those particular players, Maurice stated that everyone who works in the National Hockey League has got it pretty good.
"We've got nothing to complain about, pretty good life. Every day, every city, is a pretty darn good one," Maurice told reporters at the Jets morning skate in Buffalo ahead of Tuesday's game against the Sabres.
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"I don't think any coach, any player, trainer, referee should ever complain about a day in the National Hockey League."
Maurice's impassioned response included some trademark sarcasm and humor, as well, after a reporter asked him to comment on what San Jose's Tomas Hertl, Justin Braun and Tim Heed said about Winnipeg in an online video feature before the Jets dropped the Sharks 4-1 at Bell MTS Place on Sunday.
A great moment during Paul Maurice's media availability this morning. This was his answer when asked by @WFPJasonBell about the video of San Jose players complaining about #Winnipeg. A fantastic perspective from the coach. pic.twitter.com/Ofxu3yGE7G
— Tyler Esquivel (@Mr_Skeyval) January 9, 2018
Hertl said Winnipeg was his least favorite NHL city because "it's cold and dark there. I don't like it there."
Braun did not have good things to say about the hotel the team stays at in Winnipeg, adding, "I don't know if they have WiFi there yet."
Woo. Winnipeg. Can’t wait. pic.twitter.com/Ho740iOYZL
— Sharks on NBCS (@NBCSSharks) January 7, 2018
The comments rankled many in Winnipeg, including Premier Brian Pallister, who showed some snark in response.
Full quote from Premier Brian Pallister regarding the comments made from San Jose #Sharks players saying that Winnipeg is the worst city to play in. #NHLJets pic.twitter.com/lYx6mU2FPv
— Scott Billeck (@ScottBilleck) January 9, 2018
The Jets put the silliness behind them Tuesday when, with Steve Mason spelling Connor Hellebuyck and starting in goal, they look to beat the Sabres for the second time in less than a week, trying to follow up Friday's 4-3 home-ice victory over Buffalo.