Elite goaltenders rarely become realistic trade targets, which is why Connor Hellebuyck has become the center of attention across the NHL. Every contender looking for stability in net has at least explored the possibility, but turning interest into a deal is going to be far more difficult.
One Eastern Conference team came closer than most before negotiations hit a wall.
Buffalo Sabres Back Away as Connor Hellebuyck’s Asking Price Stalls Trade Talks
Hellebuyck remains available, but acquiring the three-time Vezina Trophy winner appears to be far more complicated than simply making an attractive offer. While several contenders have checked in with the Winnipeg Jets, the Buffalo Sabres reportedly came closest before negotiations broke down over the final details of a potential blockbuster.
Canadiens insider Marco D’Amico first revealed the setback on X, writing, “Buffalo got close on Hellebuyck, but was told the ask from Winnipeg was too high.” Earlier, D’Amico also reported, “Other teams involved. Heard Leafs kicked tires.”
His updates reinforced that interest in Hellebuyck remains strong, even though Winnipeg has shown little interest in lowering its demands.
The discussions between the Jets and Sabres reportedly involved Buffalo’s No. 4 overall draft pick. However, the teams failed to reach an agreement, and the speculation officially ended when the Sabres kept and used their 2026 NHL Draft pick to select defenseman Daxon Rudolph.
The failed negotiations also reflect Winnipeg’s current position. General manager Kevin Cheveldayoff has repeatedly indicated that he is willing to listen but has no urgency to move his franchise goaltender.
As Cheveldayoff explained, “What I’ve been hearing hasn’t made me act. The best answer is I’m still listening.”
With Hellebuyck signed through 2031 at an $8.5 million cap hit and carrying a full no-movement clause for the next season, the Jets have little reason to rush into a deal that falls short of their valuation.
Although Buffalo appears to have stepped back, the market has hardly disappeared. Carolina reportedly submitted an offer centered around a 1st-round pick and defenseman Alexander Nikishin, while the Florida Panthers have also expressed interest as they prepare for the possibility of losing Sergei Bobrovsky.
Toronto has also monitored the situation, though reports suggest the Maple Leafs have only explored the possibility rather than advancing serious negotiations.
Hellebuyck’s value extends well beyond his regular-season numbers. Despite finishing the 2025-26 NHL season with a 23-23-11 record, a 2.86 goals-against average, and a .895 save percentage, he reminded everyone of his elite ability by leading Team USA to Olympic gold with a 1.18 GAA and a .956 save percentage in five games.
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For now, Winnipeg continues to control the process. Unless a contender is prepared to meet the Jets’ premium asking price, Hellebuyck may remain the biggest name on the trade market.
