Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck, a recipient of an Olympic gold medal and three Vezina trophies for being the top NHL goaltender, has made a public request for a trade.
Speculations regarding the future of the star player have been circulating among hockey enthusiasts and journalists for some time. Hellebuyck confirmed through a statement from his agent on Thursday that he had privately asked for a trade from the Jets a few months ago.
In his statement, Hellebuyck mentioned that he had handled the situation discreetly to allow the organization time to consider its options. As the training camp draws near, he felt it was necessary to make his request public, stating that he believes moving on would be the best course of action for himself and his family. He expressed gratitude to the Winnipeg Jets fans for their support throughout his career and hoped for a swift resolution.
Originally from Michigan, the 33-year-old Hellebuyck achieved a remarkable milestone by being named both the league’s most valuable player and top goalie following the 2024-25 NHL season, during which the Jets clinched the league’s best record for the first time in franchise history.
Jets’ general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff, in a subsequent statement, mentioned that there were no updates on the goalie’s future with the team. Cheveldayoff acknowledged Hellebuyck’s desire for a change and praised his significant contributions to the Winnipeg Jets over the years. He assured that the team would handle the situation thoughtfully and with respect.
Hellebuyck recalled the moment when the Jets drafted him in the fifth round of the 2012 NHL draft and expressed his dedication to proving their decision right ever since.
Notably, Hellebuyck received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this year in recognition of his outstanding performance in the Olympic gold-medal game against Canada at the Milano-Cortina Winter Games, where he made 41 saves on 42 shots. This prestigious medal is the highest civilian honor bestowed upon United States citizens.
Having been a finalist for the Vezina Trophy on five occasions, Hellebuyck’s future in the NHL remains a topic of interest and speculation.