Updated
Updated · Bleacher Report · Aug 28
Connor Hellebuyck Trade Request Puts 8 NHL Teams in Play as Jets Lose Leverage
Updated
Updated · Bleacher Report · Aug 28

Connor Hellebuyck Trade Request Puts 8 NHL Teams in Play as Jets Lose Leverage

3 articles · Updated · Bleacher Report · Aug 28

Summary

  • Eight potential landing spots emerged for Connor Hellebuyck after his trade request from Winnipeg became public, with Buffalo, New Jersey and Edmonton highlighted among the leading fits.
  • Months-old trade demands surfaced just weeks before training camp, weakening Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff's leverage and increasing pressure to avoid an awkward start to the season.
  • Buffalo was framed as the strongest match because it has young forwards, defensive prospects and goalie depth, even after posting a .900 team save percentage last season.
  • New Jersey gained traction after moving Jacob Markstrom this offseason, while Edmonton, Vegas and Florida were portrayed as harder deals because of cap constraints and widespread no-trade protection.
  • Detroit, San Jose and Chicago were also cited as plausible destinations, underscoring how Hellebuyck's full no-move clause and $8.5 million cap hit could shape any eventual deal.

Insights

How can the Jets secure a premium return when Hellebuyck’s strict no-movement clause dictates exactly where he can be traded?
Will a team risk top assets for a 33-year-old goalie carrying an $8.5 million cap hit after a statistically dismal season?