Connor Hellebuyck Reveals Threats Against Family Led to Winnipeg Jets Departure

Connor Hellebuyck demanded a trade from the Winnipeg Jets during the summer because fan harassment against his family crossed a line into threats beyond the internet, Expressen reported on November 10, 2026.

The 33-year-old goaltender, who won Olympic gold with the United States in February, refused to report to Winnipeg ahead of the current season. His refusal to play became one of the biggest talking points of the NHL summer before he was dealt to the New Jersey Devils.

Speaking to the press ahead of a game against his former club, Hellebuyck explained that he had to act as a father and husband.

Winnipeg Jets suspended and fined the veteran netminder for his handling of the departure. Hellebuyck spent eleven seasons with the organization.

Hockeysverige noted that Winnipeg won only five playoff series during Hellebuyck’s tenure, with his career Stanley Cup save percentage standing at 90.3 percent. His recent postseason numbers dipped, recording save percentages of 88.6, 87.0, and 86.6 over his last three playoff runs.

Hellebuyck was one of several prominent American players to request trades following the Olympics, alongside Dylan Larkin and Brady Tkachuk, according to Hockeysverige.

The New Jersey organization decided that Hellebuyck will not play in the matchup against Winnipeg, a decision the goaltender disagreed with. He has started his career in New Jersey with five wins, a 1.96 goals-against average, and a 91.3 save percentage.

The day I said I was a Jet for life, I meant it, Hellebuyck said, according to Hockeysverige. But I couldn’t foresee what would happen in the future.

Winnipeg Jets and New Jersey Devils face off at 01.00.

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