How Will Connor Hellebuyck’s Letter to Winnipeg Shape Fans Reaction Ahead Tuesday's Homecoming?

On Wednesday, former Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck surprised the Jets community by releasing a statement through his agent, Ray Petkau, reflecting on his 11 seasons with the organization and expressing heartfelt love for the city of Winnipeg and the province of Manitoba. 

Hellebuyck said he will always be grateful for his time in the city, where he began his family, and he praised Manitoba's "many beautiful lakes and places to enjoy nature," noting that some of his favorite memories away from the rink were spent fishing there. 

Acknowledging that his trade request was "disappointing and frustrating for many people, especially those who supported me throughout my career," the 33-year-old explained that "several considerations" went into the decision, "including some very challenging circumstances involving my family," and called it an "extremely difficult decision" he and his family reached carefully. 

He thanked owner Mark Chipman, GM Kevin Cheveldayoff and the rest of the organization, as well as his teammates, coaches and support staff for their friendships and memories, and closed by telling fans he will "never forget the pride I felt representing Winnipeg" and wishes the Jets and the community "nothing but the best."

While much conversation around the split between Hellebuyck and the Jets sounded like it may have been messy according to insider reports, it appears the now-New Jersey Devils netminder wanted to express no hard feelings towards the organization and more importantly the Winnipeg community. 

In his introductory press conference with his new team, Hellebuyck spoke on his time with the Jets and made it clear that he wanted it to be known how much he cared about Jets fans and the community. 

"Canada loves their hockey, and I felt that to the bone... I've loved my time there, and I've loved the people that I've met," Hellebuyck said. "I hope they know I care about them." 

It is yet to be seen how the letter will influence the Jets community but we will get an answer in short order as the Devils will travel to Winnipeg to take on the Jets next Tuesday. It is not yet known if Hellebuyck will play or backup netminder Jake Allen, but he will likely make an appearance. 

Hellebuyck would go on to finish his Jets tenure with a 345-208-55 record, a 2.58 goals-against average and a .916 save percentage in 625 games, leading the franchise in nearly every goaltending category, including games played, wins, losses, shutouts, time on ice, goals-against average and save percentage.

Through three starts this season New Jersey, he's won all three games while stopping 54 of 60 shots with six goals allowed. 

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