NHL1 hour ago2 minute read

Connor Hellebuyck Opens Up About Decision to Leave Winnipeg

Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck addressed Winnipeg fans on Instagram after requesting a trade to New Jersey due to family matters.

The EagleEyeOdds deskWritten from the match data, checked against our model before it goes out

Hellebuyck explains Winnipeg departure

Star goaltender Connor Hellebuyck says family issues led to his trade request from Winnipeg. In an Instagram letter to Jets fans on Wednesday, the goaltender addressed his departure.

Hellebuyck explained that "very challenging circumstances" involving his family were behind the decision. He acknowledged that his trade request disappointed many local supporters, calling it an "extremely difficult decision" after much thought. He added that his family chose to keep those circumstances private and asked people to respect that choice.

Trade package and franchise history

The New Jersey Devils acquired Hellebuyck on Oct. 23. Winnipeg received forwards Dawson Mercer, Alexander Command, and Nick Bjugstad, goaltender Nico Daws, a 2027 seventh round pick, and a 2029 second round pick.

The move came a month after Hellebuyck publicly asked for a trade. Winnipeg suspended him when he failed to report to training camp. Before leaving, Hellebuyck was the face of the franchise, winning three Vezina Trophies as the top goalie in the NHL along with the 2024-25 MVP award.

Hellebuyck thanked co owner Mark Chipman and general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff. He also thanked his teammates and fans, noting how he felt connected to Winnipeg through his love of the outdoors.

Hostile returns for American players

New Jersey plays in Winnipeg on Tuesday. It is unknown if local fans will welcome him back.

Hellebuyck is part of a trend of American players leaving Canadian clubs for teams in the United States. Two of his Olympic gold medal teammates faced cold reactions in their old arenas. Longtime Senators captain Brady Tkachuk was jeered when his Florida Panthers visited Ottawa. Former Canucks captain Quinn Hughes was booed in Vancouver after joining the Minnesota Wild.

What it means for the next game

Dallas Stars at Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL, Fri, 06 Nov): Columbus Blue Jackets win 43%, Dallas Stars win 57%; projected score Columbus Blue Jackets 3, Dallas Stars 3. Our safest pick: Blue Jackets +1.5.

San Jose Sharks at Dallas Stars (NHL, Sun, 08 Nov): Dallas Stars win 58%, San Jose Sharks win 42%; projected score Dallas Stars 3, San Jose Sharks 3. Our safest pick: Under 8 goals.