Connor Hellebuyck confirmed publicly on Thursday that he has requested a trade from the Winnipeg Jets, putting the name of a three-time Vezina Trophy winner and reigning Hart Trophy recipient at the centre of the NHL's final major offseason story. With training camps scheduled to open on September 16, the window for a deal is shrinking — and so far, Winnipeg has found no offer that meets its price.
From quiet request to public statement
Hellebuyck's agent, Ray Petkau, released a statement Thursday in which the 33-year-old goaltender said he had privately requested a trade "several months ago" but decided to go public with training camp approaching. "Moving on is the best path forward for me and my family," Hellebuyck wrote. Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff acknowledged the situation, calling Hellebuyck "an important part of the Winnipeg Jets organization for many years" and pledging to "continue to work through the situation in a thoughtful manner." That language does not suggest a deal is close. Hellebuyck spent his entire 11-season career in Winnipeg, winning the Vezina in 2019-20, 2023-24, and 2024-25, and adding the Hart Trophy as league MVP after leading the Jets to the Presidents' Trophy in 2024-25.
The contract complication
Hellebuyck signed a seven-year extension worth $59.5 million in October 2023, carrying an $8.5 million average annual value. With four years remaining after this coming season, any acquiring club would absorb roughly $34 million in future obligations — a significant commitment for a goaltender who posted a career-low .895 save percentage in 2025-26 as Winnipeg missed the playoffs. Hellebuyck holds a full no-movement clause but is reported to be willing to waive it for the right destination. The Jets' asset demands have so far exceeded what rival clubs are prepared to return, and Cheveldayoff appears content to wait.
Who is in the picture
Buffalo remains the most consistently linked destination. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported discussions between the two teams around the June draft, and The Fourth Period confirmed after Thursday's statement that the Sabres maintain serious interest. The Carolina Hurricanes, Florida Panthers, and New Jersey Devils have also been identified as interested parties. Carolina and Florida represent established contenders seeking a top-tier upgrade in goal; New Jersey offers a rising roster and a large market. Each possibility comes with its own complication — primarily salary fit and the return package Jets management will demand in exchange for a multiple-award winner still capable of elite play in the right circumstances.
Jets hold the cards until September 16
Hellebuyck cannot force a move without the Jets' cooperation, and Cheveldayoff has shown no sign of lowering expectations. A difficult 2025-26 campaign has not dramatically shifted the goaltender's perceived value across the league, and multiple teams clearly believe his prior peak performance is more representative of his ability than last season's numbers. If no trade materialises before camp, Hellebuyck would almost certainly report to Winnipeg on September 16 and begin the season with the club. How that dynamic plays inside the locker room, and whether a mid-season deal remains possible, is now the overriding question for both parties.