A veteran Jets watcher believes a departure from Winnipeg is likely, even if no trade is finalized yet. While no deal is done, several offseason moves have strengthened the belief that Hellebuyck’s tenure with Winnipeg could be approaching its end.
A prominent local columnist stated that a trade of Hellebuyck is highly probable, estimating odds well above 95 percent while noting the timing and destination remain unclear. The column also highlighted recent Jets decisions as indicative of a shift in direction for the franchise.
The columnist pointed to Winnipeg’s handling of goaltender personnel as evidence of a broader transition. Specifically, the team allowed a prior goaltender to leave while signing a veteran-to-be a two-year contract, which is seen as stabilizing on-ice work while the Jets prepare for life after Hellebuyck. The move is interpreted as general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff positioning the roster for a major transition.
Jets trade discussions around Hellebuyck are complex, especially given the goaltender’s high value. Buffalo has emerged as a leading potential destination after talks reportedly heated up before the 2026 NHL Draft; however, negotiations stalled when Winnipeg sought Buffalo’s fourth overall pick without surrendering its own top-10 selection. The reported trade discussions also described Winnipeg’s asking price as requiring a strong return, including a second-line center, a second-line winger, and a premium prospect or young goaltender. This reflects Hellebuyck’s value despite a challenging 2025-26 season.
In terms of performance, Hellebuyck finished the 2025-26 season with a 23-23-11 record, an .895 save percentage, and a 2.86 goals-against average. He did not record a shutout that season, a first in his NHL career, as Winnipeg’s defense faced difficulties.
On the international stage, Hellebuyck delivered standout performances, notably leading Team USA to the gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics. He stopped 41 of 42 shots in a 2-1 overtime victory over Canada and posted a tournament-best .956 save percentage, earning the Goaltender of the Tournament honor.
While Buffalo remains a strong rumored fit, San Jose has grown into a serious contender, according to sources close to the discussions. Some analysts consider Buffalo the most logical landing spot, with San Jose a close second and Carolina a more distant third.
Winnipeg now faces a pivotal choice: keeping Hellebuyck could preserve elite goaltending, but trading him for a package of impact players could better position the team for its next competitive phase. The decision will shape the Jets’ direction as they navigate a period of roster restructuring and transition.
