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 his future has been ongoing, but Hellebuyck confirmed his request in a statement released by his agent. He expressed that he had privately asked for a trade from the Jets some months ago and decided to make it public ahead of the upcoming training camp.
In his statement, Hellebuyck mentioned that he handled the situation discreetly, giving the organization time to consider its options. The goalie emphasized that he believes moving on is the best decision for himself and his family, expressing gratitude to Winnipeg Jets fans. Despite his successful career with the Jets, Hellebuyck feels it’s time for a change.
General manager Kevin Cheveldayoff acknowledged Hellebuyck’s desire for a new opportunity but stated there were no updates on the situation. Cheveldayoff praised Hellebuyck’s contributions to the team over the years and assured that the organization would handle the matter thoughtfully.
Hellebuyck, a native of Michigan, achieved a rare feat by earning both the league’s MVP and top goalie titles in the 2024-25 NHL season. He was pivotal in the Jets’ record-breaking season, where they clinched the league’s best record for the first time in franchise history.
Furthermore, Hellebuyck recalled the Jets drafting him in 2012 and his determination to prove himself since then. Notably, he was honored by U.S. President Donald Trump with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his exceptional performance in the Olympic gold-medal game earlier this year. Hellebuyck has also been a finalist for the Vezina Trophy on five occasions.