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 Hellebuyck’s future has been ongoing for months, and he recently confirmed that he privately asked for a trade from the Jets several months ago.
In a statement released by his agent, Hellebuyck mentioned that he had been handling the situation discreetly to allow the organization time to consider its options. However, with the upcoming training camp, he felt it was necessary to publicly acknowledge his trade request. He emphasized that moving on would be the best course for him and his family, expressing gratitude to Winnipeg Jets fans for their support throughout his career.
Hellebuyck, aged 33 and hailing from Michigan, achieved a remarkable feat by being named both the league’s MVP and top goalie after the 2024-25 NHL season, during which the Jets secured the league’s best record for the first time in franchise history.
Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff, in a subsequent statement, noted that there were no new developments regarding Hellebuyck’s future with the team. Cheveldayoff acknowledged Hellebuyck’s desire for a change and praised his contributions to the organization over the years, affirming that the team would handle the situation thoughtfully.
Hellebuyck expressed his gratitude for the Jets drafting him in 2012 and emphasized his dedication to proving their decision right. Notably, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from former U.S. President Donald Trump for his outstanding performance in the Olympic gold-medal game earlier this year.
Having been a finalist for the Vezina Trophy five times, Hellebuyck’s trade request marks a significant development in his career trajectory.
