Report: Connor Hellebuyck 'keen' on trade from Winnipeg Jets

Connor Hellebuyck doesn't necessarily sound like he's ready to turn his back on the Winnipeg Jets, but if they came to him with a trade proposal to a Stanley Cup contending team, it surely sounds like he'd be ready for the next chapter of his career.

In a recent report, The Athletic's Murat Ates and Jesse Granger shed some light on what's been going on in Winnipeg, and what to expect out of Hellebuyck heading into next season. While many feel the former Vezina, and Gold Medal winning goaltender can get back to top form next season, it appears the trade rumors won't go away, including involving the Buffalo Sabres.

The specifics are critical to explore, even as the broad strokes of Hellebuyck’s offseason are well known. He spoke critically about the team’s direction at his exit interviews and then waited, without comment, as the team pursued trade opportunities that did not come to fruition. Winnipeg came close to a trade with the Buffalo Sabres at the draft, and despite the close proximity of the 2026-27 season, it’s believed Hellebuyck is still keen to be moved.

His teammates expect him to be at training camp. They’re just not talking as if they’re 100 percent sure Hellebuyck, 33, is a forever Jet. “I hope Helle is back playing for us,” Josh Morrissey told The Athletic. “He’s the best goalie in the world. But what happens, doesn’t happen, whatever, that’s with him and his agent and the organization.”

“Until something happens, he’s a Jet, he’s a good friend, and we’re excited to get him back,” Jets captain Adam Lowry said.

Hellebuyck has also been linked to the Colorado Avalanche, and it doesn't sound like trade rumors are slowing down anytime soon, and if the Jets get off to a tough start, the noise will become deafening in Winnipeg. 

Hellebuyck is signed through the 2031 season at $8.5 million AAV, and owns a full no-movement clause until next July, when things change to a 10-team approved trade list. The Sabres, Avalanche, Florida Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights, and Carolina Hurricanes are the teams to keep an eye on in trade talks.