Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has been the subject of trade rumors throughout this offseason. Now, things just got more real on that front.
Hellebuyck released a statement through his agent, Ray Petkau, confirming that he requested a trade from the Jets earlier this offseason and that his position has not changed.
“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,” Hellebuyck said.
Hellebuyck also added:
“With training camp approaching, I felt it was important to publicly confirm my request. My position has not changed, and I believe moving on is the best path forward for me and my family. I appreciate everything Winnipeg Jets fans have meant to me throughout my career and hope a resolution can be reached soon.”
Hellebuyck requesting a trade from Winnipeg is not necessarily surprising, as he expressed frustration over how their 2025-26 season went during the team’s exit meetings. Now, he will need to be watched incredibly closely as a trade candidate.
Jets Trading Hellebuyck Would Be a Franchise-Altering Move
GettyANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 27: Connor Hellebuyck #37 of the Winnipeg Jets makes a save during the second period against the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center on February 27, 2026 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images)
If the Jets choose to honor Hellebuyck’s trade request and move him, it would be a franchise-altering trade. The 33-year-old goaltender has been a major part of their core for over a decade now and has undoubtedly had plenty of individual success over that time. This is made apparent by him winning the Hart Memorial Trophy, Vezina Trophy three times, and the William M. Jennings Trophy twice.
Yet, with Hellebuyck making his trade request public, it could up the Jets’ motivation to deal him before the start of the season. Keeping him could be a real distraction with his trade request out in the open.
Hellebuyck’s 2025-26 Season With the Jets
GettyBOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – MARCH 19: Connor Hellebuyck #37 of the Winnipeg Jets warms up prior to a game against the Boston Bruins at the TD Garden on March 19, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Rich Gagnon/Getty Images)
Hellebuyck is coming off a tough 2025-26 season with the Jets. In 57 games, he posted a 23-23-11 record, a .895 save percentage, and a 2.86 goals-against average. This was after the star goalie had a 47-12-3 record, a .925 save percentage, and a 2.00 goals-against average in 63 appearances for Winnipeg in 2024-25.
Given the plethora of success Hellebuyck has had in his career, teams looking for goalie help should still be targeting him after his tough season. He is a prime bounce-back candidate and would be a major pickup for any team looking to go on a real run this campaign.
Winnipeg Jets’ Connor Hellebuyck Makes Big Trade Request Announcement