Connor Hellebuyck Addresses Winnipeg Fans After Blockbuster Devils Trade
The newly acquired Devils goaltender expressed his respect for the fanbase amid a contentious departure from the Jets.
Connor Hellebuyck, recently traded to the New Jersey Devils, addressed the fallout from his departure from the Winnipeg Jets during his introductory press conference. Hellebuyck, who spent his first 11 NHL seasons with the Jets, was acquired by New Jersey in a multi-player, multi-round draft pick trade on Friday.
"I mean, there’s a lot," Hellebuyck told reporters Saturday when asked about his message to the Winnipeg fans. "There’s a lot that I need to say, but they have the Heritage Game coming up — so out of respect for them and for the celebration of hockey, I’m gonna postpone that to a later date."
Hellebuyck had requested a trade during the offseason, which led to his absence from training camp and a subsequent suspension by the Jets. The goalie acknowledged his feelings about the situation, stating that being away from the game "was getting to me."
He expressed excitement about joining the Devils, a team he believes aligns with his career goal of winning a Stanley Cup. Hellebuyck noted that the Devils' core players, including Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, Timo Meier, and Jesper Bratt, share a similar championship aspiration. "I’m here to win, and the only thing I’ve got left on my résumé is a Stanley Cup. So seeing that these guys have kinda got their vision tight on that as well, it’s just gonna fit perfectly,” he said.
Having not played since the end of last season, Hellebuyck indicated that he anticipates a minimal ramp-up period before returning to game action.
The trade saw the Jets receive forwards Dawson Mercer and Nick Bjugstad, goalie Nico Daws, Alexander Command, a 2027 seventh-round pick, and a 2029 second-round pick in exchange for Hellebuyck.
Hellebuyck's arrival in New Jersey reunites him with Jack Hughes, with whom he shared an Olympic experience, watching Hughes score a game-winning goal. The veteran goaltender is expected to address a significant need for the Devils and bolster their chances for a deep postseason run.