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Sources: At least 3 teams in mix for Jets goalie...
Sources: At least 3 teams in mix for Jets goalie Hellebuyck
Match Overview
Trade talks surrounding Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck have intensified, with at least three NHL franchises actively submitting trade proposals. The New Jersey Devils, Los Angeles Kings, and Ottawa Senators have emerged as the primary suitors for the 30-year-old Vezina Trophy winner.
Hellebuyck is entering the final year of a six-year, $37 million contract ($6.16M AAV). Following Winnipeg’s early postseason exit, the American netminder informed management that he does not intend to sign a long-term extension with the franchise, accelerating trade negotiations ahead of the upcoming season.
Key Stats & Facts
- 2022-23 Record: 37-25-2 across 64 regular-season starts.
- Save Percentage (.SV%): .916 SV% (4th in NHL among goalies with 50+ starts).
- Goals Against Average (GAA): 2.49 GAA through 3,778 minutes of action.
- Goals Saved Above Expected (GSAx): +30.8 (2nd highest in the NHL).
- Workload Metrics: Led all NHL goaltenders in total shots faced (1,964) and saves made (1,798).
- Career Honors: 2019-20 Vezina Trophy winner, three-time NHL All-Star (2018, 2020, 2023).
- Contract Status: 1 year remaining ($6.16M cap hit); seeking a contract extension in the $8.5M–$9.5M AAV range.
Player Spotlight & Standings Impact
Hellebuyck stands as the premier workhorse goaltender in modern hockey. Over the past five regular seasons, he leads all NHL goalies in games played (283), total shots faced (8,881), and total saves (8,152), posting at least 34 wins in four of those campaigns.
The Winnipeg Jets finished 4th in the Central Division (46-33-3, 95 pts) before falling 4-1 to the Vegas Golden Knights in the First Round. Subtracting Hellebuyck pushes Winnipeg into an immediate roster retool, while adding his elite save depth elevates suitors like New Jersey (112 pts) or Los Angeles (104 pts) directly into top-tier Stanley Cup contention.