Winnipeg, Manitoba – The Winnipeg Jets announced Wednesday that veteran goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has been suspended after he did not report to the team’s training camp. Hellebuyck, 33, has spent his entire 11‑year NHL career with the Jets, earning three Vezina Trophies as the league’s top goaltender and the Hart Trophy as the most valuable player in the 2024‑25 season.
Hellebuyck’s seven‑year contract, signed in October 2023, carries an average annual value of $8.5 million. In a statement released through his agent Ray Petkau, Hellebuyck said, “I have tried to handle the situation quietly and respectfully while giving the organization time to explore its options. With training camp approaching, I felt it was important to publicly confirm my trade request. My position has not changed. I believe moving on is the best path forward for me and my family.”
General manager Kevin Cheveldayoff will hold a press conference Thursday to address the situation, though the team has not disclosed the length or terms of the suspension.
Trade interest and recent performance
Multiple media reports indicate that the Jets have been in trade discussions with the Buffalo Sabres, while the Utah Mammoth, Carolina Hurricanes and New Jersey Devils have also expressed interest in acquiring Hellebuyck.
Hellebuyck posted a down season by his standards in 2025‑26, finishing with a 23‑23‑11 record, a 2.86 goals‑against average and a career‑worst .895 save percentage. The Jets missed the playoffs, ending the year at 35‑35‑12.
In contrast, the prior season saw Hellebuyck dominate, posting a 47‑12‑3 record, a .925 save percentage, a league‑best 2.00 goals‑against average and eight shutouts, earning both the Hart and Vezina trophies.
Over his 625‑game NHL career, Hellebuyck has compiled a 345‑208‑55 record, a 2.58 goals‑against average and a .916 save percentage. He also led Team USA to a gold medal at the 2026 Milano‑Cortina Olympics.
Upcoming schedule
The Jets open the preseason against the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday and will begin the regular season at home against the Boston Bruins on October 2.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
