Connor Hellebuyck put the Winnipeg Jets on notice back in April. During his end-of-season media availability, the Vezina-caliber goaltender didn’t mince words: the team needs to drastically improve if they want to win a Stanley Cup. While there hasn’t been any explosive fallout yet, the clock is officially ticking. Hellebuyck is in wait-and-see mode, watching closely to see what General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff does to upgrade the roster during the 2026 NHL draft, free agent frenzy, and the summer trade market.
But if the Jets stumble, another contender is quietly waiting in the wings. According to Adam Proteau of The Hockey News, the New Jersey Devils could aggressively chase Hellebuyck, but it all hinges on their current crease. Reports suggest the Devils are currently gauging Jacob Markstrom’s value in the trade market. If New Jersey can shed Markstrom’s contract, it opens the door for a massive blockbuster to bring Hellebuyck to the Prudential Center.
Why the Winnipeg Jets Must Act Fast to Keep Connor Hellebuyck Happy
Make no mistake: Hellebuyck isn’t packing his bags today. My take on the entire situation is that his April comments were a calculated challenge, not a trade demand. What he actually said was that the Winnipeg Jets must improve to win the Stanley Cup. He loves the city and his teammates, but he is a competitor entering the back half of his prime. He could very well seek a trade in a year or two if management fails to make any meaningful improvements this summer.
Cheveldayoff is notoriously patient, but patience won’t cut it right now. The Central Division is an absolute gauntlet. Colorado, Dallas, and Minnesota aren’t slowing down, and Utah is up and coming. The Jets need top-six scoring depth and defensive reinforcements. If Cheveldayoff sits on his hands, Hellebuyck’s frustration will only mount.
How Jacob Markstrom Fits into the Devils’ Master Plan
On the flip side, the New Jersey Devils find themselves in a fascinating position. They have an elite, young offensive core led by Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier. They are built to win right now. But goaltending has been their Achilles’ heel.
If they can successfully move Jacob Markstrom, moving his cap hit off the books, they instantly become the most dangerous player in the goalie market. Acquiring Connor Hellebuyck would instantly transform New Jersey from a playoff hopeful into a legitimate Stanley Cup contender. Hellebuyck masks defensive mistakes better than almost anyone in the league, which is exactly what a high-flying, run-and-gun team like the Devils needs.
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