Buffalo Sabres discussed Connor Hellebuyck in a deal potentially involving the fourth overall pick hours before the 2026 NHL Draft opened.
Sabres pursue Vezina winner
Winnipeg Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff stated nothing had advanced far enough to indicate progress on a Hellebuyck trade as of the morning of June 26.
Elliotte Friedman reported the Sabres made a formal run at the goaltender that day, centering on their fourth-overall selection.
Talks between Buffalo and Winnipeg later quieted, leaving the possibility open until the pick at 7 p.m. ET.
Carolina Hurricanes have also shown interest according to Friedman, while Florida’s ability to match salary remains uncertain.
The Jets recognize they may need to move the 32-year-old netminder before his value drops further.
Larkin situation stays stalled
Detroit Red Wings executive vice president Steve Yzerman has kept all discussions on Dylan Larkin deliberately quiet.
No concrete offers had surfaced by late afternoon on draft day, consistent with Yzerman’s preferred negotiating style.
A Larkin deal would require significant assets given the 29-year-old center’s eight-year, $8.7 million AAV contract.
Friedman noted the next phone call could still change the landscape before the draft concludes.
Draft-day implications
If Buffalo acquires Hellebuyck, the fourth pick would leave their prospect pool thinner but immediately strengthen the crease.
Detroit holding firm on Larkin preserves future flexibility for a potential 2027 extension or trade window.
Both situations illustrate how one conversation can shift team timelines within the final hours before selections begin.
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Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.