Elliotte Friedman reveals when Connor Hellbuyck could make his Devils debut
Photo credit: James Carey Lauder-Imagn Images
Connor Hellebuyck could be in a New Jersey Devils crease much sooner than anyone expected. Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet pointed to a back-to-back on Tuesday and Wednesday, against Dallas and Colorado, as a realistic window for the star goaltender's debut.
The Jets sent Hellebuyck to New Jersey on Friday, ending a standoff that began with a trade request and a suspension. He has not started a game since April, so the layoff is the biggest question hanging over his arrival.
Why Friedman Expects a Quick Turnaround
Friedman noted that Hellebuyck has handled a similar ramp-up before. After returning from surgery last year, he practiced only twice before getting back into the lineup.
That history shapes his belief that New Jersey will not wait long. As he put it:
Do not be surprised if we see him in one of those two games. He will try to make that work.
The timing also suits what the Devils need. New Jersey leads the league in expected goals percentage, yet its goaltending has trailed its skaters.
Jake Allen and Nico Daws, who went to Winnipeg in the deal, combined for an .880 save percentage through 10 games. Hellebuyck, a three-time Vezina Trophy winner, would be an immediate upgrade even with some rust.
What Could Delay the Debut
Practice time will decide everything. Two skates is a tight runway for a goalie who missed training camp and the opening weeks of the season, so New Jersey may prefer a measured approach. A back-to-back also creates a natural split, with Allen starting one game and Hellebuyck the other.
If the Devils choose patience, Nov. 10 is the next date to circle. New Jersey visits Winnipeg that night, which would put Hellebuyck across from the franchise he starred for during 11 seasons, though it remains unclear when he will be ready.
The wait should be short. Last season he posted a .895 save percentage, so New Jersey is betting on a rebound, and Tuesday's lineup report against Dallas will offer the first clue.
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