One of the biggest player stories that has taken place this year in the NHL involves an elite level goaltender who USED to play for a team that many people across the region cheer for.
Connor Hellebuyck, who won three Vezina Trophies as the league’s top goalie and one Heart Trophy for League MVP with the Winnipeg Jets, wanted out.
After the Jets missed the playoffs last season, Hellebuyck publicly expressed frustration about the team’s ability to build a championship roster, and indicated that his main career goal was to win a Stanley Cup. He then privately requested a trade, before eventually going public with it in August. Hellebuyck refused to report to training camp, which lead to an unpaid suspension.
Hellebuyck has said that his family faced intense public and social media backlash following the 2026 Winter Olympics (where he led Team USA to a gold medal against Canada and later visited the White House). Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff has also acknowledged that Hellebuyck’s family endured treatment they should not have had to experience.
The Jets recently traded Hellebuyck away to the New Jersey Devils. At the time of the trade, Hellebuyck reserved making any public comments about leaving Winnipeg, but now he is taking to social media to address the fans.
CONNOR HELLEBUYCK’S LETTER TO JETS FANS
“When I think about my years in Winnipeg, I’ll always be grateful for the life my family and I built there and for the people who became such an important part of it. It’s where I grew as a player and where we started our family.
One of the things I’ve always loved about Manitoba is the connection people have to the outdoors. With so many beautiful lakes and places to enjoy nature, it’s a special part of life there. Some of my favourite memories away from the rink will always be the time I spent on the water fishing.
I know my decision to request a trade was disappointing and frustrating for many people, especially those who supported me throughout my career. I understand those feelings, and I want everyone to know it was an extremely difficult decision.
There were several considerations that went into my decision, including some very challenging circumstances involving my family. After a lot of thought and discussion, we ultimately felt that making a change was the best thing for our family. We’ve chosen to keep those personal circumstances private, and hope people can respect that.
I’m sincerely grateful to Mark Chipman, Kevin Cheveldayoff and the entire Jets organization for the opportunity they gave me and the trust they showed in me over the years.
To my teammates, coaches, trainers, equipment staff and everyone behind the scenes, thank you for your friendships, support and memories that I will always carry with me.
To the great Jets fans who supported me and my family, thank you. I’ll never forget the pride I felt representing Winnipeg, and I wish the Jets and the entire community nothing but the best.”
With gratitude,
Connor
Listen to what stood out to me in Connor Hellebuyck’s statement…
