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 Hellebuyck’s future has been circulating among hockey enthusiasts and analysts for some time. Confirming the rumors, Hellebuyck disclosed that he had privately asked the Jets for a trade several months ago.
In a statement released through his agent, Hellebuyck mentioned that he had handled the situation discreetly to give the organization time to consider its options. As training camp approaches, he felt it was necessary to make his request public, believing that moving on would be the best decision for himself and his family.
Expressing gratitude to Winnipeg Jets fans for their support throughout his career, Hellebuyck hopes for a prompt resolution to the situation. The 33-year-old Michigan native achieved a remarkable milestone by being named both the league’s MVP and top goalie in the 2024-25 NHL season, during which the Jets secured their first-ever best record in franchise history.
Jets’ general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff, in a subsequent statement, acknowledged Hellebuyck’s desire for a change. Cheveldayoff praised the goalie’s significant contributions to the team over the years and assured that the organization would handle the situation thoughtfully.
Hellebuyck recalled the moment when the Jets drafted him in the fifth round of the NHL draft in 2012, vowing to prove the team right with his dedication and effort. Notably, U.S. President Donald Trump honored Hellebuyck with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his outstanding performance in the Olympic gold-medal game against Canada at the Milano-Cortina Winter Games.
Having been a Vezina Trophy finalist on five occasions, Hellebuyck’s trade request marks a significant development in his career trajectory.