Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, a decorated player with an Olympic gold medal and three Vezina trophies, has made a public request for a trade. Speculation about his future has been ongoing for months, and Hellebuyck confirmed his trade request in a statement released by his agent on Thursday.
In his statement, Hellebuyck mentioned that he had privately asked the Jets for a trade several months ago but had kept the matter discreet to allow the organization time to consider its options. As training camp approaches, he felt it was necessary to publicly acknowledge his request, believing that moving on would be the best decision for himself and his family. He expressed gratitude to the Winnipeg Jets fans for their support throughout his career and hoped for a swift resolution.
At 33 years old and hailing from Michigan, Hellebuyck achieved a remarkable feat by being named both the league’s most valuable player and top goalie in the 2024-25 NHL season. Despite his outstanding performance, Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff stated that there were no updates on Hellebuyck’s future with the team. Cheveldayoff acknowledged Hellebuyck’s desire for a change and emphasized his significant contributions to the organization over the years.
Hellebuyck, who was drafted by the Jets in the fifth round of the 2012 NHL draft, expressed his dedication to proving the team’s decision right since day one. Notably, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from U.S. President Donald Trump for his exceptional performance in the Olympic gold-medal game earlier this year. Hellebuyck has also been a five-time finalist for the Vezina Trophy.
As negotiations and discussions continue, both Hellebuyck and the Winnipeg Jets are working towards a resolution that benefits all parties involved.