NHL Sr. Writer Projects Surprising Hellebuyck Landing Spot

The Connor Hellebuyck situation continues to drag out, with only a week before training camps open. The top goaltender in the world wants to be moved, and the Winnipeg Jets are looking to get an ample return.

A number of potential destinations and interested teams have been floated, with the most frequent ones being the Buffalo Sabres, Carolina Hurricanes, and Utah Mammoth. 

But NHL.com senior writer Dan Rosen, appearing on his regular NHL Network segment on SiriusXM, had a surprising pick for Hellebuyck's eventual landing spot. 

I never rule out Vegas. You know what I mean? You just can't rule out Vegas. I understand they have Carter Hart and Adin Hill, but I think that they always find a way. They find a way and they're always pushing the envelope. So if you had a gun to my head right now, I'd say Vegas. 

The Golden Knights made a noteworthy addition last season between the pipes when they signed Hart. The move wasn't without controversy, as Hart became the first of the five former Canadian World Junior team players from 2018 that were all acquitted of sexual assault charges last summer. 

Hart took over the starter's role late in the season and went on an excellent run in the playoffs to take the team to the Stanley Cup Finals. But he faltered in the championship round. 

As Rosen mentioned, Hill is still around as well, and he did lead the Golden Knights to a Stanley Cup, back in 2023. Last season, in 27 games, it was the first time Hill has posted a save percentage below .900 (.870). 

Nevertheless, the Knights are never afraid to take the biggest swings when a star player becomes available, cap constraints be damned. So while Vegas goes into the season with a decent tandem in the crease, it's hard to argue with a prediction that they will ultimately be players for a superstar like Hellebuyck.