Stuart Skinner reacts to Connor Hellebuyck trade request as Jets' crease faces major uncertainty

Stuart Skinner is trying not to look at the calendar, but everyone around him keeps pointing to it anyway.

The Jets goaltender signed a two year, $7.5 million contract with Winnipeg back on July 1, expecting to settle into a backup role behind Connor Hellebuyck.

Two months later, that plan looks a lot shakier.

Hellebuyck has renewed his trade request, and the three time Vezina winner has made it clear he wants out of Winnipeg for good.

Skinner met with reporters after an informal skate at the Hockey For All Centre this week and admitted the situation could end up affecting him more than anyone else in the room.

Still, he insisted his approach hasn't changed.

His time in the league taught him to control what's in front of him and let the front office sort out the rest, no matter how many distractions swirl around the crease.

Jets captain Adam Lowry echoed that sentiment Tuesday, saying the room will keep treating Hellebuyck like a teammate for as long as he remains one.

Hellebuyck is still under contract for five more seasons at roughly $8.5 million annually, coming off a Hart Trophy winning campaign in 2025.

That makes any move complicated, but it hasn't stopped speculation that Skinner could open the season as Winnipeg's starter.

Away from the drama, Skinner says the Jets room has welcomed him with open arms, and he's excited to work with goalie coach Wade Flaherty.

The 27 year old Edmonton native brings real playoff pedigree, having backstopped the Oilers to back to back Stanley Cup Finals before a midseason trade sent him to Pittsburgh.

Whatever happens with Hellebuyck, Skinner believes this Jets group can contend if they stay consistent and stick together through adversity.

Also read on House Of Hockey :
Connor McDavid addresses Alex Formenton signing as some fans blast his response