nypost
A gold medal reunion is set to take place in New Jersey, as the Devils have secured the services of goaltender Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets in a blockbuster trade. The move will see the Olympic champion join forces once again with fellow USA star Jack Hughes.
According to multiple reports, Winnipeg will receive goaltender Nico Daws as part of the return package.
Hellebuyck had requested a trade out of Winnipeg during the offseason, leading to a bizarre sequence of events in which the Jets suspended him for failing to report to training camp.
The 33-year-old immediately becomes the top netminder for head coach Sheldon Keefe, with veteran Jake Allen slated to handle backup duties. While it may take some time for Hellebuyck to reach full game shape, he brings instant credibility in goal to a team with Stanley Cup aspirations.
A Michigan native and fifth-round pick in the 2012 draft, Hellebuyck holds a 345-208-55 record, all with the Jets. He has twice led the NHL in wins, earning three Vezina Trophies and two Jennings Trophies, both in a standout 2024-25 season that also saw him capture the Hart Trophy as the league's MVP.
Key Analysis
The acquisition of Hellebuyck significantly bolsters the Devils' goaltending situation, providing a proven winner who has consistently performed at an elite level. His familiarity with Jack Hughes from their time together on the international stage could ease his transition into the lineup. For the Jets, the trade signals a shift, as they move on from a franchise goaltender and acquire a younger asset in Daws. The deal has the potential to reshape the balance of power in the Eastern Conference, with New Jersey now boasting a formidable presence between the pipes.
Originally reported by nypost.