Winnipeg Jets Closing In On Connor Hellebuyck Trade

From the sounds of it, Connor Hellebuyck will be getting his wish within the next few days. According to multiple reports, the Jets have dug in and are in advanced trade talks with three teams regarding Hellebuyck, and a trade is expected to be finalized within the next few days.

Elliotte Friedman: Re Connor Hellebuyck trade request/Jets: I think there's a recognition now that this has to happen and is going to happen - 32 Thoughts (9/10)

Hellebuyck went public with his trade demands a couple of weeks ago, and now the Jets lost a lot of their leverage working deals quietly throughout the early stages of the summer. As Elliotte Friedman points out, a move is coming, it's just a matter of time, and many feel it will happen early next week.

As far as trade destinations go, the Carolina Hurricanes, Utah Mammoth and Buffalo Sabres appear to be the last three teams standing. There's also been a lot of talk about how Karel Vejmelka and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen likely have Winnipeg on their no-trade lists, so that's been the main road block to this point. Carolina seems to be willing to part with goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov, however Brandon Bussi is likely more appealing to Kevin Cheveldayoff, and it's worth noting the Jets don't want a futures oriented trade package. If the 'Canes are involved, Alexander Nikishin, one of their goaltenders, and a top-nine forward would be included. 

For what it's worth, the Sabres seem to be the favorite, followed by the 'Canes and Mammoth. 

In Winnipeg, Hellebuyck's long-time teammates are already starting to move on and shift their focus from teammate to friend, as they know it's not an easy situation, and each person's situation is very different. Mark Scheifele spoke to the media recently and opened up about seeing Hellebuyck move on from Winnipeg. 

“You definitely hear things or see things, and you’re unsure,” Scheifele said. “But you kind of focus on yourself more, because you know if you (focus on) the business side of things or someone else’s personal situation, then you can drive yourself crazy.”

“He’s arguably the best goalie in the world,” Scheifele said. “But whatever happens, you just got to put your own focus on yourself and focus on the team and continue to do what you can do to be the best player that you can be, be the best player for the team around you, and try to win games. I just want to win games, win the Stanley Cup, and that's my focus every day.”

“Obviously, I want him to be my goaltender. But at the same time, you have to kind of turn your teammate face off and turn your friend face on. Just be there for him as a friend, and also know that there’s stuff that’s out of your control.”