Winnipeg Jets turn down blockbuster Connor Hellebuyck trade offer from the Sabres

Buffalo and Winnipeg were tied together around the draft, when the reported structure centered on the fourth overall pick, extra draft capital, a top prospect and a current NHLer. One stumbling block was the eighth overall selection.

The Jets reportedly refused to send it back to Buffalo because they wanted to draft Viggo Bjorck with it. Dreger's comments suggest the roster piece may have been just as significant.
The Hockey Writers

Dreger did not name the player. Speculation has centered on Josh Norris, who has battled shoulder problems and lost significant time in each of the past five seasons, and Jiri Kulich, who has dealt with blood clots. Neither has been confirmed.

Hellebuyck is a three-time Vezina Trophy winner, 33 years old, with five seasons left on a deal carrying an $8.7 million cap hit. He is not expected at training camp, and the Jets have suspended him.

Dreger has also said interest since the draft has been minimal and that the goalie will not waive his no-trade clause to remain in Canada.

That leaves general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff searching for a return that helps Winnipeg stay competitive, and a forward with durability questions is a tough fit for that goal. Buffalo's Jarmo Kekalainen has said he will keep exploring any move that improves his roster, so the door is not fully closed.

The talks were close, but a single health question kept them from crossing the finish line, and the clock on Hellebuyck's unresolved situation keeps ticking louder every day.

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