Three teams named as finalists to acquire Connor Hellebuyck via trade
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The Connor Hellebuyck trade saga could involve more than just the teams directly pursuing the Winnipeg Jets goaltender. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman has identified three organizations that could play pivotal roles in determining how the situation unfolds.
Speaking on the latest episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, Friedman discussed the Buffalo Sabres, New York Rangers, and Utah Mammoth as teams to watch as Hellebuyck's future remains uncertain.
The three clubs have different levels of involvement, however, and Friedman made an important distinction between teams that could acquire the star goaltender and those whose decisions might influence the wider trade market.
Buffalo Sabres Remain a Team to Watch
Buffalo appears to be the most direct potential destination among the three teams Friedman identified. The Sabres have previously pursued Hellebuyck, and the insider indicated that the goaltender would be willing to join the organization.
That makes Buffalo an intriguing possibility as Winnipeg looks for a resolution to the situation. Hellebuyck is an established elite goaltender, and acquiring him could give the Sabres a major upgrade at the most important position on the ice.
The challenge will be determining whether Buffalo can assemble a package that meets Winnipeg's expectations. Previous discussions have reportedly involved significant assets, illustrating how difficult it could be to complete a deal for a player of Hellebuyck's calibre.
Despite the connection, no trade agreement has been confirmed.
Rangers and Utah Could Influence the Market
The New York Rangers are a different case. Friedman does not view them as a likely direct destination for Hellebuyck, but the team's situation could still have a significant impact on the goalie market.
New York is dealing with a season-ending injury to Igor Shesterkin. Whatever general manager Chris Drury decides to do to address that loss could prompt other clubs to reconsider their own goaltending plans, potentially creating opportunities for Winnipeg to move Hellebuyck elsewhere.
Utah is the third team Friedman highlighted. The Mammoth have surfaced intermittently in the conversation, making them another organization worth monitoring as negotiations develop.
Friedman's discussion on 32 Thoughts does not establish that any of these teams is close to completing a deal. Instead, his analysis points to three organizations whose decisions or interest could help determine Hellebuyck's next destination.
For the Jets, finding the right return remains the central issue. Buffalo offers a potential direct path, while New York and Utah could influence how the wider market develops. Until a deal is reached, Hellebuyck's future remains unresolved.
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