NHL Star Goalie Saga Ends with Trade After All

Connor Hellebuyck is leaving the Winnipeg Jets and joining the New Jersey Devils.

The NHL star goaltender, who won the Vezina Trophy for best goaltender three times overall (2019/20, 2023/24, and 2024/25) and even the Hart Trophy as the league's most valuable player in 2024/25, has now been transferred to the New Jersey Devils after a lengthy standoff.

Hellebuyck marked an era of success with the Jets, and also became an Olympic champion with the US national team, but there had been a recent dispute. The goaltender requested a trade, consequently did not report to training camp, and was subsequently suspended by the club a week ago.

The suspension would have concluded today, but the 33-year-old will nevertheless no longer play for the Jets. In return, the Winnipeg Jets received forward Dawson Mercer, goaltender Nico Daws, and forward Nick Bjugstad from the New Jersey Devils, among other assets.