Jets weigh Hellebuyck offers but demand dual return

Kevin Cheveldayoff confirmed the Jets are listening to trade offers on Connor Hellebuyck with no timeline set as of June 26.

Limited Suitor Interest

Darren Dreger reported on TSN that only a handful of teams have inquired about Connor Hellebuyck. The Florida Panthers possess Anton Lundell yet refuse to include him in any package. The Buffalo Sabres hold sufficient assets but remain occupied with multiple other negotiations. This narrow pool leaves Winnipeg without a concrete offer that would prompt action.

Greg Wyshynski posted that one general manager described the Jets as receptive yet Chevy has not circled back with specific requirements. Mike McIntyre noted Cheveldayoff referenced end-of-year meetings as the reason for fielding calls. No team has advanced beyond preliminary discussions.

Cheveldayoff told reporters that what he has heard so far has not prompted movement. The absence of aggressive bidding reflects Hellebuyck’s elite status and the high cost of replacing him.

Only two clubs have engaged meaningfully according to league sources cited by TSN. Interest remains exploratory rather than transactional.

Acceptable Return Package

Craig Button outlined on TSN that Winnipeg requires a goaltender plus a second-line center. Button stressed the incoming netminder cannot match Hellebuyck’s caliber. The second-line center addresses a clear roster gap identified by Cheveldayoff.

The Jets top priority remains acquiring that center. Cheveldayoff stated their biggest need sits at second-line center. Any Hellebuyck deal must therefore replenish both positions simultaneously.

Carolina’s recent goaltending maneuver serves as precedent. The Hurricanes upgraded their tandem without sacrificing elite production. Winnipeg seeks similar balance but faces fewer willing partners.

Button emphasized the package must strengthen multiple weak areas. A lone first-round pick or prospect fails this threshold.

Draft Capital and Timeline Pressure

Cheveldayoff confirmed trade talks involving the No. 8 pick. He believes an impact player remains available at that slot regardless. Retaining the pick could supplement a future Hellebuyck return if talks stall.

No deadline has been attached to the process. The July 1 free-agent period approaches without an evident buyer. This calendar pressure favors patience over haste.

Hellebuyck’s contract status and age profile add complexity. Any suitor must weigh immediate contention windows against long-term cap commitments.

Cheveldayoff reiterated the organization will not rush decisions. The current listening posture preserves leverage ahead of the draft.

The Jets’ stance leaves Hellebuyck under contract for 2026-27 unless a precise dual-position offer materializes.