The Jets could have a costly punishment waiting for Connor Hellebuyck if he returns

Connor Hellebuyck wanted out of Winnipeg.

Now the Jets may have a way to make his return a lot more expensive than he planned.

The Jets suspended the goalie on Sept. 16 when he skipped the start of training camp, and he has stayed away ever since.

Winnipeg opened the 2026-27 season against Boston on Oct. 2 without him, and the club has started 3-1-1.

The talk centers on Article 15.13(c)(ii) and (v) of the NHL's CBA.

Those sections deal with a player failing to report and his readiness to play.

Depending on how they apply, the Jets could hold off paying him until the organization decides he is fit and ready to return.

They could also pursue a disciplinary suspension of reasonable length for missing camp.

There are limits here. The language would not let Winnipeg shut him down forever just because management is frustrated.

It covers withheld salary and a reasonable suspension, and nothing beyond that.

The money is real. He is signed through 2030-31 at $8.5 million per season, and one Jets fan even built a website tracking what he is losing, which comes out to close to $40,000 a day by its count.

Walking back in only to watch that meter keep running is an awkward spot for any player.

Kevin Cheveldayoff has said the door is open for a return, but he has also said the club will wait for the right trade.

Elliotte Friedman has suggested Hellebuyck may have no choice but to report, while adding that few people involved seem to want a reunion.

Winnipeg is in no rush, and that patience could become its biggest weapon in this standoff.

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