Connor Hellebuyck is suddenly the hottest name in the NHL trade market as the 2026 Draft approaches. TSN’s Pierre LeBrun reported on Thursday that the Buffalo Sabres have engaged the Winnipeg Jets about acquiring Hellebuyck, using their fourth-overall pick as leverage. The Hurricanes also entered the chase this week, offering defenseman Alexander Nikishin in a proposed package, per Hockey 24/7’s Frank Seravalli. Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff remains selective, listening to offers but rejecting anything short of his asking price.

What’s driving Hellebuyck’s trade demand?

Hellebuyck, 33, is entering the final year of his contract and has become a prime target for teams needing a franchise goalie. The Sabres see him as the missing piece behind a deep playoff push, while the Hurricanes view him as a quick fix for a Cup window that’s closing fast. Both clubs have the draft capital to make it work, but Cheveldayoff isn’t biting. Jets insiders say he’s waiting for an offer that matches Hellebuyck’s value—not just as a player, but as the face of Winnipeg’s franchise.

Why the Panthers aren’t in the mix (yet)

Florida’s name surfaced early in the rumor cycle, but LeBrun doubts the Panthers can land Hellebuyck without surrendering center Anton Lundell. GM Bill Zito’s reluctance to part with Lundell—his top young forward—leaves the Panthers on the outside looking in. For now, their pursuit hinges on whether another club can pry Lundell loose elsewhere, freeing up Hellebuyck as a fallback.

What comes next for Hellebuyck and the Jets?

The Jets have made it clear they’re open for business, but the clock is ticking. The 2026 Draft kicks off Friday in Las Vegas, and Hellebuyck’s camp is watching every move. If Buffalo or Carolina can’t meet Cheveldayoff’s terms, the Jets may hold tight—at least through the draft. But with Hellebuyck’s contract expiring next summer, the pressure to move him before the deadline grows by the hour. Jets fans are bracing for a summer of uncertainty, while rival GMs circle like sharks in a feeding frenzy.

The bigger picture: Hellebuyck’s legacy in Winnipeg

Hellebuyck has been Winnipeg’s rock since 2016, backstopping the Jets to five straight playoff berths before a down year in 2025-26. His 2.41 career goals-against average and 91.8% save percentage rank among the best in franchise history, but Father Time waits for no goalie. Winnipeg’s next move will define the franchise’s next decade—whether they rebuild around a new starter or cash in on Hellebuyck’s trade value while the iron’s hot.

*Reporting via TSN’s Pierre LeBrun and Hockey 24/7’s Frank Seravalli on 12 July 2026.*