Olympic Gold Medalists Hellebuyck and Hughes Reunite as Devils Acquire Goaltender

The New Jersey Devils have acquired goaltender Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets, reuniting the Olympic gold medal winner with teammate Jack Hughes. Hellebuyck, a three-time Vezina Trophy winner and the NHL's MVP for the 2024-25 season, brings a decorated resume to the Devils.

Both Hellebuyck and Hughes were instrumental in Team USA's historic gold medal victory in men's Olympic hockey, marking the first gold for the U.S. since 1980. Hughes scored the golden goal in overtime against Canada, while Hellebuyck made 41 saves in the championship game.

Following their Olympic triumph, Hellebuyck and Hughes were among the athletes honored at the White House and attended President Donald Trump's State of the Union address, where Hellebuyck was announced to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The trade to acquire Hellebuyck involved a significant package from the Devils, including center Dawson Mercer, goalie Nico Daws, prospect Alexander Command, forward Nick Bjugstad, a 2029 second-round pick, and a 2027 seventh-round selection. The move comes as the Devils' current goaltending tandem of Daws and Jake Allen has posted a .880 save percentage, ranking 23rd in the league.

Hellebuyck has been a prominent figure for U.S. international teams, also serving as the starting goalie for the inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off in 2025. His NHL career statistics include a 345-208-55 regular-season record, placing him 27th in all-time wins and fifth among U.S.-born goalies. Among U.S.-born goalies with at least 300 starts, he holds a .916 save percentage and a 2.58 goals-against average.

Hellebuyck's departure from Winnipeg was preceded by a public request to be traded in September, leading to his suspension for failing to report to training camp. His acquisition by the Devils adds another high-profile American hockey star to a U.S.-based NHL team, following similar moves involving players like Brady Tkachuk and Quinn Hughes.