Connor Hellebuyck Could Be On His Way Out of Winnipeg

A report over the weekend claimed Connor Hellebuyck isn't interested in staying long-term with the Winnipeg Jets.

Pierre-Luc Dubois' agent recently informed the Winnipeg Jets that his client wasn't interested in a contract extension. Over the weekend came word that Connor Hellebuyck felt the same way.

A report in The Athletic on Saturday claimed there shouldn't be any confusion over whether the 30-year-old goaltender will sign an extension. “That ship has sailed. His next contract will be with a new team.”

CapFriendly shows Hellebuyck carries a $6.166-million cap hit for 2023-24 and is slated to become a UFA next July. He lacks a no-trade clause, enabling the Jets to ship him to any NHL club that provides them with the best return.

Winner of the Vezina Trophy in 2019, Hellebuyck is a finalist for that award this season. His place among the league's elite goaltenders would make him an enticing trade target if the Jets peddle him this summer. The Jets could retain him in the hope of one last playoff run next season, but that would mean losing him for nothing next summer.

Hellebuyck could be the Jets' best trade chip. Media speculation already links Hellebuyck to the Buffalo Sabres, Carolina Hurricanes, Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, New Jersey Devils, Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs and Vegas Golden Knights.

With speculation brewing that Hellebuyck and Dubois could be traded by the draft, Mark Scheifele's future with the Jets will also become the subject of media conjecture. 

Scheifele's also eligible for UFA status next July. If he feels the same as Hellebuyck and Dubois, the Jets could have a very different look when training camp opens in September.