Connor Hellebuyck Seeks Trade Amidst NHL Limbo

Connor Hellebuyck, the Winnipeg Jets' backbone for a decade, wants a trade to a Stanley Cup contender.

What's Happening with Connor Hellebuyck's Trade?

The Buffalo Sabres offered the No. 4 pick in the 2026 draft, but the Jets asked for Zach Benson, to which the Sabres responded: 'That's not happening.'

The Jets turned down the Sabres' offer over draft weekend.

Why Connor Hellebuyck Wants a Trade

Hellebuyck's end-of-season interview sparked speculation about his future, and the Jets tried to downplay the rumors, but the three-time Vezina winner has had enough of staying put.

Hellebuyck is 33 years old and has five years remaining on his contract with an $8.5 million AAV.

What Comes Next for Connor Hellebuyck?

Elliotte Friedman reported that Hellebuyck is "100% willing to waive" his no-movement clause to facilitate a move to Buffalo, which is a testament to the organization's turnaround.

The Sabres no longer have the #4 overall pick to dangle in a trade, and if Benson is off the table, Jarmo Kekäläinen will have to come up with a package valuable enough to prise Hellebuyck away from Winnipeg.

Insider David Pagnotta's last update mentioned the Sabres are willing to include an assortment of assets, such as goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, Jack Quinn, Radim Mrtka, Ryan McLeod, and Konsta Helenius.

The future looks bright for the Sabres' core, especially after the 2026 NHL Draft, and replacing Alex Tuch's production will be a priority for the general manager.

Given Hellebuyck's play style, it's likely he will continue his fine form, which means the ball is now in Kekäläinen's court.

Hellebuyck's trade saga continues, with the Sabres likely to come back to the table, considering goaltending was their biggest problem in the 2026 playoffs.

The smart money will be on the Sabres making another offer for the Team USA champion, who has been the backbone of the Winnipeg Jets for a decade.

And with Hellebuyck willing to waive his no-movement clause, a deal could be imminent.

But for now, Connor Hellebuyck remains in trade limbo, waiting for a deal that will take him to a true Stanley Cup contender.