Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck told reporters Tuesday that personal incidents “more than online death threats” directed at his family solidified his decision to ask for a trade. The 33‑year‑old, who was dealt to the New Jersey Devils on Oct. 23, said he wants to keep the specifics private but emphasized his duty as a husband and father.

Family safety drives the decision

“There were moments and things that happened to my family that, for me, crossed the line,” Hellebuyck explained. “I needed to be a good husband and a good father and do what’s best for my family and my career.” He added that his family experienced “a few moments that I don’t want to see happen again,” prompting the trade request.

Olympic success and public reaction

Hellebuyck backstopped the U.S. men’s hockey team to gold at the Milan‑Cortina Olympics in February and attended a White House reception honoring the squad. The appearance drew criticism in Canada, which he acknowledged may have contributed to the backlash he faced.

“I’m sure it did a little bit. I don’t think it matters if it’s fair or not,” he said when asked about the reception’s impact.

Emotional ties to Winnipeg remain

Despite the trade, Hellebuyck stressed his strong emotional connection to Winnipeg, noting he grew up in the city and made many personal connections there. “I don’t want anyone to think I don’t love it here,” he said.

Fans expressed their displeasure during a pre‑game warm‑up, booing loudly from the Canada Life Centre seats as he skated onto the ice. The Jets went on to defeat the Devils 4‑2.

Contract and future outlook

Hellebuyck had previously pledged to spend his career with the Jets, signing a seven‑year, $59.5 million extension in October 2023. He now says circumstances have changed, including his family’s comfort in Winnipeg and the team’s competitiveness.

“To the people who feel that I’ve been disloyal, well, there’s also a lot that I was not expecting to happen go on throughout this contract,” he said.

New Jersey debut

The Devils announced Sunday that Hellebuyck would sit out the upcoming game against his former team, citing a decline in expected win probability. Since the trade, he has won all five starts for New Jersey. He said he had a constructive conversation with coach Sheldon Keefe and general manager Sunny Mehta about his role.

“I’m 14 days into a new team, and they handle their business differently than I’m used to,” Hellebuyck said. “When I went in there and said my piece and said I felt it was my duty to play this game and said ‘I want to play,’ I had a good conversation with (Keefe and Mehta), and I left that conversation understanding where they’re at.”

Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.