Home / Sports / Hellebuyck eyes Panthers trade after rough Jets season
Hellebuyck eyes Panthers trade after rough Jets season
19 Apr
Summary
- Goalie Connor Hellebuyck may seek trade from Winnipeg Jets.
- Florida Panthers could be a strong trade destination.
- Hellebuyck is under contract for four more years at $8.5M.
Connor Hellebuyck may be looking to leave the Winnipeg Jets after a challenging season, with a trade to the Florida Panthers emerging as a strong possibility. Reports suggest Hellebuyck's discontent stems from the team's performance this past season. He is currently under contract for another four years, with an annual salary of $8.5 million. At 33 years old for the upcoming season, Hellebuyck has a history of elite performance, including multiple Vezina Trophy wins, despite a statistically weaker 2025-26 season where he posted a 2.86 goals-against average and an 89.5 save percentage.
The Panthers, who recently missed the playoffs after two Stanley Cup Final appearances, could be seeking a significant roster upgrade. Sergei Bobrovsky's contract is set to expire, creating financial flexibility and a goaltending vacancy. Florida also possesses a potential trade asset in their top-10 draft pick for the upcoming NHL Entry Draft. This confluence of factors suggests a potential blockbuster trade if Hellebuyck indeed seeks a move from Winnipeg.
