The Winnipeg Jets suspended Connor Hellebuyck after the U.S. Olympic gold medalist skipped the start of training camp, turning his trade request into a public standoff.
The three-time Vezina Trophy winner and 2024-25 Hart Trophy winner did not report as the Jets opened camp on September 16. Hellebuyck, a Michigan native who has played all 11 of his NHL seasons in Winnipeg, went public with his request on August 27.
In a statement, he said: "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. I believe moving on is the best path forward for me and my family."
Hellebuyck signed a seven-year extension with an $8.5 million average annual value and is in the third year of that deal. He went 47-12-3 with a 2.00 goals-against average and .925 save percentage in 63 games during his MVP year, when the Jets captured the Presidents' Trophy.
The Jets missed the playoffs last season after winning the Presidents' Trophy the year before. Captain Adam Lowry said the Jets can’t spend time worrying about Hellebuyck’s situation and instead have to focus on the season. General manager Kevin Cheveldayoff has said the team has tremendous respect for Hellebuyck's accomplishments and continues to work through the situation in a thoughtful manner as they seek the right resolution.