Winnipeg Jets’ goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, an Olympic gold medalist and a three-time recipient of the Vezina Trophy as the NHL’s top goalie, has made a public trade request.
Speculation about Hellebuyck’s future has been circulating among hockey enthusiasts and journalists for months. He confirmed, through a statement from his agent on Thursday, that he had privately asked for a trade from the Jets several months earlier.
In his statement, Hellebuyck mentioned that he had handled the situation discreetly and with respect, allowing the organization time to consider its options. With the upcoming training camp, he decided it was necessary to publicly acknowledge his trade request, believing that moving on would be the best decision for himself and his family. He expressed gratitude towards Winnipeg Jets fans for their support throughout his career, hoping for a prompt resolution.
Hellebuyck, aged 33 and hailing from Michigan, achieved a rare milestone by being named both the league’s MVP and top goaltender following the 2024-25 NHL season, during which the Jets secured the league’s top record for the first time in their history.
Jets’ general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff mentioned in a subsequent statement that there were no updates regarding Hellebuyck’s future with the team. Cheveldayoff acknowledged Hellebuyck’s desire for a change and described him as a pivotal figure within the Jets organization for many years. He emphasized the team’s admiration for Hellebuyck’s contributions and assured a thoughtful approach to resolving the situation.
Hellebuyck reflected on his draft experience by the Jets in 2012, stating that he had dedicated himself to proving the team’s decision right since that moment. Additionally, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this year for his outstanding performance in the Olympic gold-medal game against Canada at the Milano-Cortina Winter Games, where he made 41 saves on 42 shots. Hellebuyck has been a Vezina Trophy finalist on five occasions.