Connor Hellebuyck Confirms Trade Request from Winnipeg Jets

WINNIPEG, Manitoba — Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck confirmed on Thursday that he has requested a trade from the Winnipeg Jets. The three-time Vezina Trophy winner stated through his agent, Ray Petkau, that he made the request several months ago and aimed to manage the situation quietly while allowing the organization time to consider its options. Hellebuyck indicated that he felt it was necessary to go public as training camp approaches, with camps set to open in approximately three weeks. 'My position has not changed, and I believe moving on is the best path forward for me and my family,' Hellebuyck stated, expressing hope for a resolution soon. Hellebuyck, 33, has spent his entire NHL career with the Jets and was named MVP in the 2024-25 season. He also contributed to the U.S. team that won a gold medal at the Olympics in February. A spokesperson for the Jets did not respond to a request for comment. Trade discussions surrounding Hellebuyck emerged in late June during the draft, but no deal was finalized. Last season, he faced injuries and recorded a career-low .895 save percentage, contributing to the Jets missing the playoffs. Despite this, his overall performance is notable, with 345 wins, a 2.58 goals-against average, and a .916 save percentage since entering the league in 2015, ranking just behind Andrei Vasilevskiy of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Hellebuyck's postseason record is 24-34, with the Jets advancing past the second round only once, in 2018. He signed an eight-year, $59.5 million contract extension with Winnipeg in October 2023, which keeps him under contract through 2031 at a salary cap hit of $8.5 million. 'Winnipeg has been my home for my entire NHL career, and I will always be grateful for my time there,' Hellebuyck added. 'I appreciate everything Winnipeg Jets fans have meant to me throughout my career.'