Devils Hold Hellebuyck Out Against Former Team

The New Jersey Devils will keep Connor Hellebuyck out of their game against the Winnipeg Jets in Winnipeg on November 10, despite the goalie’s wish to play against his former teammates. General manager Sunny Mehta said the decision followed lengthy discussion within the organization and cited the possible effect on the team’s chances of winning.

Hellebuyck had stopped 23 shots in a 4-0 Devils win over the Toronto Maple Leafs on November 8. Mehta said the team would arrange a media availability for the goalie after the Devils’ morning skate in Winnipeg.

The Devils acquired Hellebuyck from Winnipeg on October 23, ending his 11-season tenure with the Jets. His departure followed a trade request and a failure to report to training camp, after which the team suspended him.

Winnipeg received forwards Dawson Mercer and Nick Bjugstad, goalie Nico Daws, the rights to unsigned draft pick Alexander Command, New Jersey’s second-round selection in 2029 and its seventh-round pick in 2027. Hellebuyck is a three-time Vezina Trophy winner and won the Hart Trophy as the NHL’s most valuable player in 2024-25.