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Devils acquire 3-time Vezina winner Connor Hellebuyck from Jets
ESPN • • general
Key Points:
- The New Jersey Devils acquired star goaltender Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets in a multi-player and draft pick trade involving four players and two future picks going to Winnipeg.
- Hellebuyck, 33, requested a trade due to personal reasons beyond hockey, and the Jets had concerns about his security following his Olympic performance.
- The Jets expedited the trade ahead of Hellebuyck's suspension expiration and the Heritage Classic event to avoid distractions.
- Hellebuyck is a highly decorated goalie with three Vezina Trophies and a Hart Trophy as league MVP in 2025, currently in the third year of a $59.5 million contract.
- The Devils' Stanley Cup odds improved significantly after the acquisition, moving from 25-1 to 14-1, reflecting the impact of first-year GM Sunny Mehta's bold roster moves.
