Hellebuyck Booed in Winnipeg Return After Trade to Devils

Connor Hellebuyck faced a hostile reception from Winnipeg Jets fans on November 10, making his first appearance in the city as a New Jersey Devil. The Jets won the game 4-2, just weeks after Hellebuyck’s trade on October 23 following his request to leave Winnipeg.

Boos began during warm-ups at Canada Life Centre. Fans chanted insults at the goaltender, and signs in the crowd mocked his play. Early in the game, supporters also called for him by name; after Dawson Mercer scored for Winnipeg 7:54 into the first period, they urged New Jersey to pull its goalie. Mercer was part of the deal that sent Hellebuyck to the Devils.

Before the game, Hellebuyck said alleged threats to his family contributed to his decision. He said the situation involved more than online death threats, and asked for privacy for his family. He also cited career uncertainty and said a fresh start was best for them.

Hellebuyck had spent his NHL career with Winnipeg, which drafted him in 2012. He made his league debut in 2015. The return marked a sharp change from his earlier connection to the community, which he said he had valued.

After the win, the Jets posted a taunt aimed at New Jersey’s earlier explanation for keeping Hellebuyck out of the game. The Devils’ general manager had said the decision reflected the team’s expected-win-probability calculation; Winnipeg’s post joked that the probability of a Jets win was 100%.