Insider reveals Jets are accelerating Connor Hellebuyck trade talks
Photo credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Connor Hellebuyck's future in Winnipeg is edging closer to a resolution.
Appearing on The Sheet, insider David Pagnotta told host Jeff Marek that momentum in the goaltender's trade saga is about to shift into a higher gear.
They're supposed to pick up this week
Multiple Teams Circling
The Buffalo Sabres remain the most persistent suitor, with reports indicating the two sides have reengaged after talks stalled back at the draft in June.
Buffalo reportedly has the assets to make a package work, and with training camps approaching, there's added incentive to close things out quickly.
The Utah Mammoth have also been mentioned as a serious player, continuing their pattern of pursuing marquee names to raise their profile.
Hellebuyck's side made things official last week when his agent, Ray Petkau, confirmed the trade request, ending months of behind-the-scenes speculation.
With a no-movement clause and five years left on his contract, any trade requires Winnipeg's sign-off, giving the Jets significant control over where he lands.
What Winnipeg Wants Back
Pagnotta's reporting suggests general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff is not prioritizing draft picks or prospects in return.
Instead, the Jets appear focused on adding help for their second line, an area where Gabriel Vilardi and Cole Perfetti have shown inconsistent results.
Stuart Skinner's arrival in net gives Winnipeg a credible fallback option, which may explain why moving their franchise goaltender feels more realistic than it did a year ago.
With training camp approaching fast, expect the pace of these discussions to accelerate significantly in the coming days.
Also read on House Of Hockey :
Toronto could offer blockbuster haul for Connor McDavid - and Edmonton still might say no
Toronto could offer blockbuster haul for Connor McDavid - and Edmonton still might say no