The Spittin’ Chiclets podcast recently shared a significant rumor involving Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck.
During the latest “Game Notes” episode, podcaster Matt Murley conveyed that Hellebuyck is seeking a trade from Winnipeg, with the Florida Panthers, a team with two Stanley Cup victories, as a preferred destination.
Murley stated:
“I heard it from some other sources. Connor Hellebuyck has asked for a trade. They said they heard reports on it. I’ve heard it from other people… and they mentioned Florida as a destination for him.”
Co-host Colby Armstrong responded:
“He’s up… something’s up here right now. Hellebuyck to Florida? That’s a bomb. Wow. He was loving the celebration though. He was loving it — because he’s forever been the playoff mush. Then he wins Olympics, has a great game, wins the gold medal almost single-handedly. He’s unbelievable. I don’t know what happened over at that Olympics. Larkin wants to get out, Hellebuyck trying to get out… they’re all trying to go play with each other.”
While this rumor is intriguing, it remains speculative and not yet a confirmed trade request.
Connor Hellebuyck’s Frustration with the Jets
Connor Hellebuyck has expressed dissatisfaction with the Jets’ performance and direction following another early playoff exit.
His remarks at the end of the season, including a significant pause when discussing his future in Winnipeg, have fueled speculation about his discontent and potential desire for a change.
“For me, it’s winning a Stanley Cup – that’s my goal, and that’s all I have left, and that’s what I want on my resumé,” said Hellebuyck via TSN. “I don’t play this game for the money, I don’t play it for the fame. I do it for my own personal fun and, you know, part of that is winning a Cup. So for me, I’m just looking at how can I get that? How can I get there?”
If Hellebuyck opts for a move to the Florida Panthers, it would be a logical choice. The Panthers recently experienced a downturn after winning back-to-back Stanley Cups. With goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky’s contract ending and approximately $15M in projected cap space, they could accommodate Hellebuyck’s $8.5M AAV. He is a proven Vezina-level goalie who could provide stability for a team looking to win now. However, this remains a podcast-driven rumor and not a confirmed development.
Connor Hellebuyck has a full no-movement clause, meaning any transfer would need his consent.
Edited by Abhishek Dilta
