Stunning turn in the Connor Hellebuyck saga

The Winnipeg Jets are entering a period of transition following their 2023 Stanley Cup postseason loss to the eventual Cup champion Vegas Golden Knights, as former captain Blake Wheeler has already been bought out of his current contract. Additionally, rumors continue to swirl around the status of Kyle Connor and Mark Scheifele. 

One player who is entering the final season of his contract is goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, who is arguably the most important figure on the roster. He's already told the Jets in no uncertain terms that he has no interest in being part of a rebuilding team, and it looks as though his time in Winnipeg has come to a close. And while it seemed as though it was a given that he'd be dealt, it looks as though that may no longer be the case - at least, quite yet. 

NHL Insider Elliott Friedman made a recent appearance on the NHL Network, and stated that he wouldn't be surprised at all if Hellebuyck were indeed to start the upcoming 2023-24 season with the Jets. 

(Hellebuyck segment starts at 2:52) 

Hellebuyck has only played for the Jets in his NHL career, and has racked up a record of 238-154-37 with a 2.66 goals against average and .916 save percentage along with 32 shutouts. 

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