Hellebuyck demands trade from Jets

Steinbach-based player agent Ray Petkau ended months of speculation Aug. 27, releasing a statement from Connor Hellebuyck confirming the goaltender had requested a trade after the end fo the season.

“With training camp approaching, I felt it was important to publicly confirm my request,” Hellebuyck said in the statement.

“My position has not changed and and I believe moving on is the best path forward for me and my family.”

The goaltender signed an seven-year extension with an average salary of $8.5 million in 2023 with the Winnipeg Jets. That contract included a full no trade clause but TSN Hockey insider Chris Johnston reported Hellebuyck has a large list of teams he would accept a trade to.

Winnipeg general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff confirmed the request. At the NHL draft this year, a potential trade with Buffalo for the three-time Vezina Trophy winner fell through.

“Connor has been open with us about his desire for a change,” Cheveldayoff said in a statement on Thursday.

“He has been an important part of the Winnipeg Jets organization for many years, and we have tremendous respect for what he has accomplished here. While we continue to work through the situation in a thoughtful manner, there is no update at this time.”

Hellebuyck thanked the fans in Winnipeg and the organization for selecting him in his statement.

“I have never forgotten June 23, 2012. That’s the day the Winnipeg Jets took a chance on a goalie playing in Odessa, Texas. I gave everything I had from that moment to prove the Jets made the right decision,” Hellebuyck said.

“Several months ago, I privately requested a trade. I have tried to handle the situation quietly and respectfully, while giving the organization time to explore its options.”

The Jets signed goaltender Stuart Skinner, who is also a client of Petkau, this summer to a two-year contract.