Jets And Starting Goalie Destined For a Split
Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck is among this season's three finalists for Vezina Trophy. The 29 year old has been one of the top goaltenders in the league for sometime now. He posted a 37-25-2 record with a 2.49 GAA and .920 save percentage.
Winnipeg had a poor showing is the playoffs, getting eliminated in five games by the Vegas Golden Knights. Since the elimination Hellebuyck has found his name in trade speculation.
After the elimination Hellebuyck was asked about his future in Winnipeg and gave a non answer:
Hellebuyck has one year remaining on his contract with a cap hit of $6,166,666 before becoming an UFA at the end of next season.
Insiders are speculating that Hellebuyck seems unlikely to sign an extension to stay in Winnipeg.
The best goalies in the league don't become available very often so if Winnipeg does Hellebuyck available for trade GM Kevin Cheveldayoff won't be short on suitors.
Hockey Journalist Larry Brooks speculates a bidding war between the Senators, Devils, Kings and Penguins.
Hellebuyck has no-trade protection so Cheveldayoff can sell him off to the best offer. Winnipeg and Hellebuyck can officially sign an extension on July 1st but if Cheveldayoff gets the indication that the teams franchise goalie doesn't want to be here anymore he must trade him. Winnipeg can't afford to let their best player walk away to free agency in the summer of 2024 for nothing.
| POLL | ||
What happens with Connor Hellebuyck this summer? | ||
| Traded | 351 | 68 % |
| Re-signs long term | 84 | 16.3 % |
| Leaves as a UFA in 2024 | 81 | 15.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
