Hellebuyck Trade Chatter Grows as Jets Face Goalie Shake-Up

The Winnipeg Jets are facing growing trade chatter around their star goaltender Connor Hellebuyck as rumors suggest he may want out of the team. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported on the latest episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast that Hellebuyck has reportedly submitted a list of preferred destinations, including the Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Vegas Golden Knights. While no official request has been filed, the noise around the 31-year-old netminder is intensifying.

Hellebuyck, who posted a .914 save percentage and 2.68 goals-against average this season, has seen his trade value rise following Nikolaj Ehlers’ successful move to a contender. Ehlers, who left the Jets for a team with better playoff chances, is now thriving on a new team. Hellebuyck may be following a similar path, as he reportedly wants to chase a Stanley Cup and is unsure if that’s possible in Winnipeg.

Friedman revealed that an NHL executive was frustrated by the amount of unconfirmed trade chatter leaking to the media. GMs are trying to keep things quiet as trade discussions develop. “There’s a lot of noise around Hellebuyck,” Friedman said, noting that multiple teams have already reached out to the Jets about the veteran goalie.

Florida is among the most likely destinations, as Sergei Bobrovsky is expected to test free agency after the 2026 season. The Panthers are looking to reload their netminder position to get back to the Stanley Cup Final. Vegas, meanwhile, has struggled with consistency from Carter Hart, who finished with a .899 save percentage and 3.22 GAA this season. Adin Hill, who has been inconsistent, could be moved to make room for Hellebuyck in the Knights’ crease.

Tampa Bay is a less likely fit despite interest, as Andrei Vasilevskiy is under contract for two more seasons. New Jersey is also a possibility, with Jacob Markstrom now available on the trade market after a strong season with the Panthers.

Hellebuyck’s trade value is high, and the Jets could receive significant returns, including top-tier prospects or a first-round draft pick. His $7 million cap hit over two years could also be a hurdle for teams looking to rework contracts.

The coming weeks will be crucial as the Jets decide whether to move Hellebuyck or try to keep him as a cornerstone of their rebuild. The deadline for blockbuster trades is typically mid-July, but the situation could develop sooner if talks intensify.