Carolina Hurricanes reportedly have a trade offer for Connor Hellebuyck

LeBrun wrote in The Athletic that Carolina's interest in the Winnipeg Jets goaltender remains firm, adding that any trade constructed around Hellebuyck would almost certainly need to include unsigned restricted free agent defenseman Alexander Nikishin.

That detail complicates an already messy situation, since Nikishin has yet to sign a new contract and is reportedly seeking a significant raise after playing last season on a $925,000 cap hit.

Nikishin, 24, put up 11 goals and 33 points across 81 games last season before adding an assist in 17 playoff appearances.

His unresolved contract status makes him a tricky trade chip for Carolina to dangle, especially with the Hurricanes defending their Stanley Cup title and trying to manage a tight cap picture.

If Winnipeg values Nikishin as part of the return, both sides may need his deal sorted out before any framework comes together.

Hellebuyck requested a trade weeks ago, and LeBrun made clear that nothing currently on the table represents a fair return for Winnipeg.

Buffalo and Utah remain in the mix alongside Carolina, though Florida has exited the race after committing its assets elsewhere this offseason.

With training camp opening September 17, the Jets face a shrinking runway to find a deal that satisfies both their timeline and their asking price.

For now, Carolina's persistence signals genuine intent, but the Nikishin wrinkle suggests this may not be a quick resolution.

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