4 Potential Trade Destinations for Winnipeg Jets' Connor Hellebuyck

For the first time in a very long time, there's some big trade rumors coming from the Winnipeg Jets.

Word is, goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has been a huge target for several teams, and trade talks have picked up in a major way the last couple of weeks. At this point, Hellebuyck being traded is as close as it's ever been.

Darren Dreger: Re Connor Hellebuyck: It's the old adage, where there's smoke, often there is fire; Kevin Cheveldayoff...is at least in a position where he knows he has to listen; teams are calling - That's Hockey (6/17)

Hellebuyck, 33, is signed through the 2030-31 season at $8.5 million AAV and holds a no-movement clause until next July. After that, Hellebuyck will only have a 10-team approved list he'll provided Jets' GM Kevin Cheveldayoff, assuming he's still with the organization.

Hellebuyck won a gold medal last Olympics with Team USA, and posted a 23-23-11 record with the Jets, along with a 2.86 goals against average, and just a .895 save percentage, his lowest mark of his career.

As far as potential trade destinations go, the Florida Panthers top the list. Word is Sergei Bobrovsky prefers a six-year deal and the Panthers don't want to sniff around that length for the veteran goaltender. The New Jersey Devils are linked to Hellebuyck, as they're shopping Jacob Markstrom and are comfortable including Simon Nemec and Dawson Mercer in trade talks.

Darren Dreger: Re Connor Hellebuyck/Jets: Kevin Cheveldayoff is listening to the teams that are calling - Barn Burner (6/17)

Two other teams to keep an eye on include the Pittsburgh Penguins and Toronto Maple Leafs. Word is John Chayka isn't sold on Anthony Stolarz and could make another goalie trade after moving Joseph Woll to the Philadelphia Flyers. As far as Pittsburgh goes, they are letting Stuart Skinner hit the open market and are open to acquiring Hellebuyck.

Let's see if the Jets get an offer they can't refuse at the NHL Draft next Friday from Buffalo.