Grading the Hellebuyck trade: Devils (finally) get their goalie as Jets head for uncertain future
The Winnipeg Jets have traded star goaltender Connor Hellebuyck to the New Jersey Devils following a period of internal friction. The move signals a potential shift in strategy for both teams as they navigate roster changes and salary cap constraints.
Why it matters
This trade significantly alters the competitive landscape of the NHL, impacting both the Devils' championship aspirations and the Jets' long-term rebuilding efforts.
The Connor Hellebuyck era is over in Winnipeg. The signature player of the Jets’ second iteration, Hellebuyck won everything but the Stanley Cup in Manitoba, collecting three Vezina Trophies and a Hart Trophy. Hellebuyck had grown vocally discontent with Winnipeg’s lackluster follow-up to a Presidents’ Trophy win in 2024-25, though, having apparently lost confidence that the Jets in front of him could compete as he waded into his late prime.
Suspended without pay for skipping camp, ‘Bucky’ crossed the Rubicon and forced an exit from the only organization he’s ever known. An acrimonious end to a brilliant tenure in the prairies opened the door for the New Jersey Devils and GM Sunny Mehta, who had kept his interest in a player his predecessor, Tom Fitzgerald, had long courted close to the vest.
Headlinne story · 4 newsrooms
Winnipeg Jets Trade Star Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck to New Jersey Devils
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