The future of star goaltender Connor Hellebuyck in Winnipeg is suddenly becoming one of the NHL’s most intriguing storylines.
The former Hart Trophy winner has been at the center of growing speculation since the Jets’ disappointing 2025-26 season came to an end, and questions about whether he still sees his future with the organization continue to mount.
As The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta reported, teams began contacting the Jets about Hellebuyck last month after comments made by the veteran netminder following the season sparked discussion surrounding his long-term plans.
“Teams had been calling the Winnipeg Jets about goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, who has a full no-movement clause, after his season-ended remarks sparked speculation over his future with the club,” Pagnotta wrote on Thursday.
“Hellebuyck, 33, is entering the third season of a seven-year, $59.5 million contract, and it is clear he wants to chase a Stanley Cup. He wanted to do so with the Jets, but after a rough season for everyone, his tune started to change.”
Winnipeg went from winning the Presidents’ Trophy to missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs entirely just one season later, and it’s clear Hellebuyck is more than just frustrated. The Jets’ disastrous campaign has created uncertainty about whether he still believes he can win a Stanley Cup in Manitoba.
According to Pagnotta, the organization has not been looking to move its franchise goaltender.
“The Jets are not actively shopping Hellebuyck and do not want to move him, by every indication I’ve been given, but if the netminder wants out, Winnipeg will have to navigate the trade waters,” the hockey insider wrote.
The speculation intensified this week when former NHL forward Matt Murley stated on the “Game Notes” podcast that Hellebuyck had indeed requested a trade.
Pagnotta was unable to independently verify that report but acknowledged that the possibility of a change of scenery has been discussed around the league for some time.
“While we’ve not been able to confirm that information, the talk even last month suggested it is something he might be open to, for the right environment,” Pagnotta added.
One team that has already been linked to the veteran netminder is the Florida Panthers.
Pagnotta reported that Florida reached out about Hellebuyck last month, and Murley suggested the reigning Stanley Cup contenders remain interested if the situation escalates.
If Hellebuyck ultimately decides he wants out of Winnipeg, the Jets could face one of the most difficult decisions in franchise history.
The two-time Vezina Trophy winner remains one of the league’s elite goaltenders, and his full no-movement clause gives him significant control over any potential move.
For now, Winnipeg has no interest in parting ways with its star netminder. But if the speculation surrounding Hellebuyck continues to grow, the Jets may eventually be forced to reckon with the departure of arguably the franchise’s most important player.
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