Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck, a decorated player with an Olympic gold medal and three Vezina trophies, has made a public trade request. Speculation about his future has been ongoing, but he recently confirmed that he had privately asked to be traded from the Jets a few months ago.
In a statement released through his agent, Hellebuyck stated that he had been handling the situation discreetly to give the organization time to consider their options. However, with the approaching training camp, he believed it was necessary to make his request public for clarity. He expressed that moving on would be the best decision for himself and his family and thanked Jets fans for their support throughout his career.
Hellebuyck, aged 33 and hailing from Michigan, achieved a remarkable feat by being named both the league’s MVP and top goalie in the 2024-25 NHL season, where the Jets secured their best franchise record. Despite this, Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff disclosed that there were no updates on Hellebuyck’s future with the team.
Acknowledging Hellebuyck’s desire for change, Cheveldayoff emphasized the goalie’s significant contributions to the organization over the years. He assured that the team would handle the situation thoughtfully and with respect for Hellebuyck’s accomplishments.
In his statement, Hellebuyck recalled the Jets drafting him in 2012 and his dedication to proving their decision right since then. Notably, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from U.S. President Donald Trump for his outstanding performance in the Olympic gold-medal game earlier this year. Additionally, being a five-time Vezina Trophy finalist highlights Hellebuyck’s exceptional career in the NHL.
