By Field Level Media
Oct 20 (Field Level Media) – At least three teams remain involved in trade discussions for Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck as the end of his team-issued suspension approaches, ESPN reported Monday.
A deal is not guaranteed before Hellebuyck’s suspension expires Friday, according to the report. If Winnipeg still has not moved him, the Jets are expected to begin paying the three-time Vezina Trophy winner while continuing to keep him away from the team.
Hellebuyck, 33, has been suspended without pay since failing to report for training camp after requesting a trade during the offseason.
Sportsnet reported Saturday that Hellebuyck informed Winnipeg before its Oct. 2 season opener that he intended to return. The Jets then exercised their authority to impose a disciplinary suspension scheduled to expire Oct. 23. The NHL’s collective bargaining agreement permits a disciplinary suspension of a “reasonable length” for a player who returns after missing training camp without permission.
Hellebuyck has forfeited nearly $39,000 per day in salary, bringing his estimated losses to nearly $800,000 through Monday, according to ESPN. He has continued skating regularly in Michigan.
The former Hart Trophy winner asked Winnipeg to move him this summer after spending his entire NHL career with the franchise. Hellebuyck has a full no- movement clause, giving him control over any potential destination.
He is in the third season of a seven-year, $59.5 million contract. His no- movement protection changes to a modified no-trade clause next summer.
Hellebuyck won his third Vezina Trophy in 2025 and also captured the Hart Trophy as the NHL’s most valuable player that season. He helped the United States win Olympic gold in February.
Winnipeg has opened the season 4-2-2 without Hellebuyck, with Stuart Skinner and Clay Stevenson handling the goaltending duties while general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff continues exploring trade options.
(–Field Level Media)
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