The New Jersey Devils acquired three-time Vezina Trophy-winning goaltender Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets on Friday.
The trade comes on the same day as the conclusion of Hellebuyck’s suspension for failing to report to training camp.
The Jets will receive forwards Dawson Mercer and Nick Bjugstad (long-term injured reserve), goaltender Nico Daws, a seventh-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft, a second-round selection in 2029 and prospect Alexander Command, whom the Devils selected with the 12th overall pick of the 2026 NHL Draft.
Hellebuyck will head to Newark, N.J., and join the Devils, who began the season with the goaltending tandem of Daws and Jake Allen.
Hellebuyck, 33, requested a trade from the Jets this summer, citing the best interests of his family.
“Several months ago, I privately requested a trade,” Hellebuyck said in his statement on Aug. 27. “I have tried to handle the situation quietly and respectfully while giving the organization time to explore its options. With training camp approaching, I felt it was important to publicly confirm my request. My position has not changed, and I believe moving on is the best path forward for me and my family.”
Hellebuyck is in the third season of a seven-year, $59.5 million contract. He has a full no-movement clause, giving him control over any potential destination.
He captured his third Vezina Trophy and added the Hart Trophy (NHL MVP) in 2025. He posted a 47-12-3 record with a .925 save percentage and league-best figures in goals-against average (2.00) and shutouts (eight).
Hellebuyck was the star of the U.S. Olympic team that won the gold medal at the 2026 Games in Milan Cortina. He made 41 saves as the U.S. beat Canada 2-1 in overtime in the final.
Hellebuyck, who grew up in Michigan, had a down season by his standards in 2025-26, finishing 23-23-11 with a 2.86 goals-against average and a career-worst .895 save percentage. Winnipeg failed to make the playoffs, going 35-35-12.
In 625 career NHL games, Hellebuyck has a 345-208-55 record with a 2.58 GAA and a .916 save percentage.
–Field Level Media
