Hellebuyck to Buffalo would reshape both rosters before 2026-27

EJ Hradek asserted on July 24 that Connor Hellebuyck has played his last game for the Winnipeg Jets as trade talks with Buffalo intensify.

Buffalo’s offer centers on young talent and a veteran netminder

EJ Hradek noted that the Sabres remain the most aggressive suitor and would likely include Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen plus forward Jack Quinn. The Jets instead seek a proven second-line center who can play behind Mark Scheifele. Quinn’s production of 30-plus goals in prior seasons does not directly address Winnipeg’s long-standing hole at center ice.

The Sabres lost Alex Tuch, who scored more than 30 goals, and defenseman Bowen Byram in recent moves. Their prospect pool remains deep but lacks immediate impact at the positions the Jets target. Buffalo’s willingness to move Quinn reflects an attempt to balance the books without surrendering higher-value assets.

Winnipeg extended Cole Perfetti last week, locking in a top-six winger and reducing pressure to acquire another forward of similar skill. That extension narrows the scope of what the Jets will accept in return for Hellebuyck.

Hellebuyck’s resume and Sabres timeline create leverage

Hellebuyck captured multiple Vezina Trophies, the 2025 Hart Trophy, and a 2026 Olympic gold medal. Those credentials make any deal a franchise-altering move for Buffalo. The Sabres finished last season with improved depth yet still require elite goaltending to push deeper into the playoffs.

No deal has been reached as of July 25 because the Jets refuse to accept only Quinn and Luukkonen. Winnipeg continues to hold out for an additional player who projects as a middle-six center. Buffalo’s front office appears content to wait until training camp pressure builds on the Jets.

Hellebuyck’s contract remains manageable, yet his stated preference to join a rising club adds another layer to negotiations. The Sabres view the 33-year-old as the final piece that could turn recent progress into sustained contention.

Pressure mounts as training camp approaches

The Jets enter July 25 with no confirmed backup plan in net if Hellebuyck departs. Any delay past August 6 risks entering camp with uncertainty at the most critical position. Buffalo, by contrast, can absorb the wait because its young core already provides roster stability.

A completed trade would give Winnipeg immediate center depth and cap relief while handing Buffalo the league’s most accomplished active goaltender. Both clubs would then face distinct roster questions for the remainder of the summer.

Unless the Jets close a deal that includes a second-line center before September 1 the franchise will enter the 2026-27 season with a clearer path to contention than it held at any point since 2019.