Washington Capitals Left Wing Alex Ovechkin standing in front of goaltender Connor Hellebuyck during the second period against the Winnipeg Jets at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., on January 18, 2022. (Photo by All-Pro Reels)
Written by Gina Anton
Connor Hellebuyck’s time in Winnipeg has come to an end. The Winnipeg Jets traded the three-time Vezina Trophy winner to the New Jersey Devils on Friday, October 23, ending months of speculation after the goaltender requested a trade during the offseason.
In return, Winnipeg acquired forwards Dawson Mercer and Nick Bjugstad, goaltender Nico Daws, prospect Alexander Command, a 2029 second-round pick and a 2027 seventh-round pick. The deal gives the Jets a collection of players and future assets as they look to move forward without their longtime starting goaltender.
For New Jersey, the move addresses a major question in goal. Hellebuyck, 33, brings an impressive résumé, including three Vezina Trophies, the 2024-25 Hart Memorial Trophy as league MVP and an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in 2026. His arrival gives the Devils an established presence at the most important position on the ice and could strengthen their push toward Stanley Cup contention.
However, the trade also marks the end of an era in Winnipeg. Hellebuyck spent 11 seasons with the franchise, becoming its all-time leader in wins, games played and shutouts. His departure follows a difficult offseason and a suspension after he failed to report to training camp while seeking a trade.
The move gives both organizations a new direction. New Jersey gains one of the league’s most accomplished goaltenders, while Winnipeg adds depth and future assets. The question now is whether Hellebuyck can help the Devils take the next step toward a championship, and how the Jets will rebuild their identity without the goaltender who anchored their crease for more than a decade.
