Connor Hellebuyck's leaked trade list creates a major problem for the Jets

Winnipeg has spent weeks trying to find a workable trade partner for Connor Hellebuyck, and the picture just got a lot more complicated.

According to veteran insider Darren Dreger, Hellebuyck's no-movement list is wider than expected, but that width comes with a massive catch that could stall any deal before it even starts.

Dreger explained that while the goaltender has opened himself up to a number of teams, every single one of them is American.

Zero Canadian franchises made the cut, which already narrows the pool for a front office hoping to maximize its return.

Add in the fact that several of those American clubs are already set in net, and the situation gets even tighter for general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff.

It is one thing to have a long list of approved destinations.

It is another thing entirely for those destinations to actually need what you are selling.

Dreger pointed out that a chunk of the American teams on Hellebuyck's list already have established starters in place, meaning they have little reason to overpay, or overpay at all, for a goaltender who is not a clear upgrade for their roster.

That leaves Winnipeg negotiating from a position of weakness rather than strength.

The Jets need a strong return to justify moving a franchise cornerstone, but a shrinking market gives suitors little incentive to bid against themselves.

Cheveldayoff now faces a delicate balancing act between patience and urgency as training camp approaches.

If the right offer never materializes, Winnipeg may be forced to either soften its asking price or simply wait Hellebuyck out into next season.

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