The Winnipeg Jets traded star goaltender Connor Hellebuyck to the New Jersey Devils on Friday, October 23, 2026, officially bringing a dramatic offseason standoff to a close. In exchange, Winnipeg acquired forwards Dawson Mercer, Alexander Command, and Nick Bjugstad, alongside goaltender Nico Daws, a 2029 second-round draft pick, and a 2027 seventh-round draft pick. The blockbuster move resolves a high-profile suspension and significantly alters the competitive landscape in the National Hockey League.
What Happened
The trade arrives just as Hellebuyck's three-week suspension by the Winnipeg Jets was set to expire. The netminder had been suspended after failing to report to training camp amid mounting friction with the franchise. Hellebuyck previously informed the team during exit interviews at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season that he wanted to be moved, citing deep frustration following a campaign where the Jets missed the playoffs and collected the second-fewest points in the Central Division. A formal trade request followed in August, culminating in a suspension that cost the goaltender $925,000 in forfeited salary.
The Facts Confirmed
Under the finalized agreement announced by NHL.com, the New Jersey Devils receive a three-time Vezina Trophy winner and the 2024-25 Hart Memorial Trophy recipient. Hellebuyck is under contract through the 2030-31 season with an average annual salary of $8.5 million. Returning to Winnipeg is 24-year-old forward Dawson Mercer, who has recorded 213 points in 420 career games; 18-year-old center prospect Alexander Command, drafted 12th overall in 2026; 34-year-old veteran Nick Bjugstad, who is currently recovering from pectoral surgery; and 25-year-old goaltender Nico Daws, who carries a 26-26-1 career record.
Impact on the Team or Competition
The departure of Hellebuyck leaves a massive vacancy in Winnipeg's crease, cementing Stuart Skinner as the team's primary starting goaltender. Skinner has opened the season with a 3-1-3 record and a .912 save percentage. For New Jersey, the acquisition addresses a persistent need for elite stability in net, pairing Hellebuyck with a roster that leads the league in expected-goals-for percentage. Divisional rivals, including the New York Rangers, now face a significantly reinforced Devils squad as the race for the Metropolitan Division intensifies.
How the Club or Athlete Responded
Winnipeg Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff previously noted that the organization evaluated all options after Hellebuyck voiced his competitive concerns at the end of last season. While the team initially sought to keep trade discussions private, Hellebuyck's public remarks in August and subsequent absence from camp forced a resolution. Cheveldayoff emphasized a desire to acquire immediate roster help rather than purely accumulating future assets, leading to the inclusion of established NHL players like Mercer and Bjugstad.
What Happens Next
Connor Hellebuyck will integrate into New Jersey's lineup as the Devils pursue a deep postseason run. Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets are scheduled to host the New Jersey Devils at Canada Life Centre on November 10, setting up an immediate reunion between the all-star goaltender and his former club.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What did the Winnipeg Jets receive in the Connor Hellebuyck trade? Winnipeg acquired forwards Dawson Mercer, Alexander Command, and Nick Bjugstad, goaltender Nico Daws, a 2029 second-round pick, and a 2027 seventh-round pick.
- Why was Connor Hellebuyck suspended? The Jets suspended Hellebuyck after he failed to report to training camp amid an unresolved trade request.
- How many Vezina Trophies has Connor Hellebuyck won? Hellebuyck has won the Vezina Trophy three times as the NHL's top goaltender, along with the Hart Memorial Trophy in 2025.
- When do the Jets play the Devils next? The Winnipeg Jets are scheduled to host the New Jersey Devils on November 10 at Canada Life Centre.