After weeks of uncertainty for the Winnipeg Jets, the Connor Hellebuyck saga has ended, with Hellebuyck officially traded to the New Jersey Devils. In return, the Jets received forwards Dawson Mercer, Nick Bjugstad, Alexander Command, goaltender Nico Daws and a second-round and a seventh-round draft pick. While the Devils acquired a Vezina-winning goalie without sacrificing their core, is Hellebuyck enough to save their season and make a playoff push?
Hellebuyck’s Sour Exit
After winning an Olympic Gold Medal, Hellebuyck privately requested a trade from the Jets and eventually publicly announced his desire to leave Winnipeg during the offseason. The Jets drafted Hellebuyck in 2012, and he has been a face of the franchise in recent years, making his request to leave more shocking. Other franchise faces, such as Brady Tkachuk and Dylan Larkin, also requested similar trades after the Olympics, with varying degrees of success.
The situation in Winnipeg worsened when Hellebuyck failed to report to training camp, leading to a suspension. During this time, Hellebuyck forfeited his salary and reportedly missed out on nearly $1 million. There was much speculation on whether or not he would return to the team following his suspension. On October 23, all rumors were put to rest when the trade with New Jersey was announced.
Goaltending Issues in New Jersey
One of the main issues the Devils needed to address this season was goaltending. After trading Jacob Markstrom, the Devils lacked a reliable, playoff-level starting goalie between Jake Allen and Nico Daws. Being a 3-time Vezina winner, Hellebuyck is a high-caliber goalie with a proven track record that could propel the Devils forward and solve one of their biggest issues.
However, two major concerns about Hellebuyck and his ability to perform could hinder his future with the Devils. The first is his age, as while the 33-year-old has a proven track record, it is the opposite approach the Devils were taking with Daws: nurturing and molding young talent. Another concern is that Hellebuyck posted a .895 SV% last season, a career low. Especially after missing the first two weeks of the season, Hellebuyck’s early performance is slightly unpredictable.
The Devils’ Future
Hellebuyck made his Newark debut on October 27 versus the Dallas Stars. While one game will not be enough to judge the rest of his season, his quick premiere shows a sign of confidence from the coaching staff. This trade could end up being a massive win for the Devils and Sunny Mehta if Hellebuyck proves successful. Hellebuyck is excited to play hockey again and can hopefully combine that passion with his proven abilities to push the Devils further.
Leave a comment