New Jersey Devils acquire Connor Hellebuyck from Winnipeg Jets

The New Jersey Devils have acquired three-time Vezina Trophy winner and 2024-25 NHL MVP Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets in a blockbuster trade. The deal ends a months-long standoff between the 33-year-old goaltender and the Jets, which included a public trade request and a suspension for Hellebuyck after he failed to report to training camp.

In exchange for Hellebuyck, the Winnipeg Jets receive a significant package consisting of center Dawson Mercer, forward Nick Bjugstad, goaltender Nico Daws, prospect Alexander Command, a 2029 second-round draft pick, and a 2027 seventh-round pick. Command was the Devils’ 12th overall selection in the 2026 NHL Draft.

Hellebuyck, an Olympic gold medalist with the United States, spent his entire 11-year NHL career in Winnipeg. His move to New Jersey reunites him with teammate Jack Hughes. The trade also includes a cap hit adjustment; due to his missed training camp days, Hellebuyck’s cap hit for the remainder of the season is reduced from $8.5 million to approximately $8.1 million.