The speculation around Connor Hellebuyck has simmered long enough to reach a boiling point this offseason. According to Winnipeg Free Press’s Mike McIntyre, the odds of the Winnipeg Jets trading their star goaltender are now “north of 95 percent.”
That possibility has also created plenty of uncertainty inside the Jets’ locker room, with teammate Cole Perfetti admitting that even the players have no idea how the situation will unfold.
Jets Teammate Speaks on Connor Hellebuyck Trade Rumors
Perfetti signed a five-year, $30 million contract extension to remain in Winnipeg. However, the 24-year-old forward is now watching the future of one of the Jets’ most important players hang in the balance.
Speaking at Adam Lowry’s wedding, where Hellebuyck was also in attendance, Perfetti admitted that the players are just as eager as everyone else to find out what happens next.
“We know as much as everyone else in the city of Winnipeg. We’re very anxious to know. We know how special he is as a player and a person. We want to be playing with him day in and day out. Whatever happens is out of our control,” Perfetti said.
That last part may be the most important.
The Hellebuyck situation has become bigger than the players. The Jets’ roster, management decisions, and the goaltender’s contract have all combined to create a situation where Winnipeg could ultimately be forced to make a difficult decision.
Why the Hellebuyck Rumors Won’t Go Away
The speculation is not simply offseason noise. It comes after a disappointing season for the Jets.
Winnipeg finished 35-35-12 and missed the playoffs entirely. Hellebuyck also endured a difficult campaign, posting a .895 save percentage and a 2.86 goals-against average over 57 starts.
During his exit interview, Hellebuyck was openly critical of the team’s performance, calling the season “unacceptable.”
The Jets then made another move that only added fuel to the trade speculation.
Winnipeg allowed Hellebuyck’s backup, Eric Comrie, to leave in free agency before signing former Edmonton Oilers starter Stuart Skinner to a two-year, $7.5 million contract.
While Skinner could simply provide the Jets with the luxury of additional goaltending depth, the move has naturally raised questions about Winnipeg’s plans for Hellebuyck.
Hellebuyck Has Control Over His Destination
Hellebuyck is 33 years old and has five years remaining on his contract, which carries an $8.5 million annual cap hit. More importantly, he has a full no-movement clause.
The Buffalo Sabres are widely viewed as one of the leading contenders. Hellebuyck is believed to prefer Buffalo, and the two sides reportedly came close to a deal at the NHL Draft before Winnipeg’s high asking price saw talks collapse.
The Carolina Hurricanes have also been linked to Hellebuyck. Carolina has long been searching for the goaltending piece that could help push the team over the top, making the veteran netminder a natural fit.
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Other teams could also enter the picture if the Jets lower their asking price.
For now, the Jets are holding out for a massive return, while the rest of the league knows they have an expensive goalie who may want out.
