Winnipeg Jets Dominate Rumor Mill As NHL Draft Approaches

The Winnipeg Jets have Connor Hellebuyck, Pierre-Luc Dubois, Mark Scheifele and Blake Wheeler in the trade rumor mill leading up to the NHL draft.

The days leading up to the NHL draft are filled with trade rumors, and this year is no exception. With the GMs from all 32 teams in the same place, there's always a possibility of deals involving established talent.

Four Winnipeg Jets players dominate the rumor mill heading toward this year's draft. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck and forwards Pierre-Luc Dubois, Mark Scheifele and Blake Wheeler are available, and at least one of them could be traded before the draft is over.

All eyes are currently on Dubois as the Los Angeles Kings are reportedly attempting to acquire the 25-year-old center. Mike McIntyre of the Winnipeg Free Press reported the Kings were offering forwards Gabriel Vilardi and Alex Iafallo as part of the return. However, there are reports claiming the Montreal Canadiens have re-engaged in discussions with the Jets.

Turning to Hellebuyck, the 30-year-old netminder was in Nashville for Monday's NHL Awards as a finalist for the Vezina Trophy. Speaking to reporters on Sunday, he acknowledged the trade rumors but said the situation was out of his hands.

Scott Billeck of the Winnipeg Sun wondered if the swelling goalie market might affect Hellebuyck's trade value. Such notables as Anaheim's John Gibson, Boston's Linus Ullmark and Philadelphia's Carter Hart could be available.

As for Scheifele, The Athletic reported the Jets aren't getting as many offers for the 30-year-old center, who's coming off a career-best 42-goal performance. Sportsnet's Ken Wiebe wondered if the Boston Bruins might be interested though their limited cap space could make it difficult to sign him to an extension worth over $8 million annually.

Wheeler, meanwhile, is reportedly working with Jets management to find a trade. Failing that, a buyout by the Friday deadline remains possible.