Long-time Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck confirmed he requested a trade from the organization he has spent his entire NHL career with. The three-time Vezina Trophy winner revealed he privately requested a trade months ago but has now gone public with his request as NHL training camps are set to begin on Sept. 16. "I have tried to handle the situation quietly and respectfully while giving the organization time to explore its options,” Hellebuyck said in the statement released by his agent, Ray Petkau.
"With training camp approaching, I felt it was important to publicly confirm my request. My position has not changed. I believe moving on is the best path forward for me and my family." Hellebuyck is entering the third year of a seven-year, $59.5 million contract he signed in October 2023.
After the Jets failed to make the playoffs last season, Hellebuyck expressed his frustration with the organization. In 11 seasons with Winnipeg, the Jets have either lost in the first round, qualifying round or missed the playoffs entire eight times. Can you get the pieces that you need?
These are always questions that you have in Winnipeg,” Hellebuyck said on April 18. Back in June, Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff said the organization was exploring trade options for Hellebuyck. After Hellebuyck's public statement on Thursday, Cheveldayoff praised Hellebuyck for his contributions to the Jets and said there is currently no update on a trade involving the 33-year-old.
Hellebuyck also expressed his gratitude for his experiencing playing with the Jets over the years. "Winnipeg has been my home for my entire NHL career, and I will always be grateful for my time there," Hellebuyck said. "I appreciate everything Winnipeg Jets fans have meant to me throughout my career."
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