Full Breakdown
Hellebuyck Suspended After Skipping Jets Training Camp
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On September 16, 2026, the Winnipeg Jets announced that goaltender Connor Hellebuyck had been suspended for failing to report to the team’s training camp. The suspension length was not disclosed, and general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff was slated to address the media on September 17, 2026. Hellebuyck, a three-time Vezina winner and the 2025 Hart Trophy MVP, had requested a trade on August 27 and missed the mandatory medicals and physicals scheduled for camp opening day.
Background & Context
Hellebuyck was drafted by Winnipeg in the fifth round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft and has spent his entire 11-season career with the Jets. After a league-best 2.00 GAA, .925 save percentage and eight shutouts in 2024-25, he posted a 2.86 GAA and .895 save percentage in 2025-26.
Data & Statistics
- Contract: Seven-year extension signed in October 2023, $8.5 million AAV, cap hit $8.5 million per season, running through 2030-31.
- 2025-26 performance: 57 games, 23-23-11 record, 2.86 GAA, .895 save percentage.
- Career totals (625 games): 345-208-55 record, 2.58 GAA, .916 save percentage, 45 shutouts.
- Olympics: Backstopped Team USA to gold at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Games, making 41 saves in a 2-1 overtime win over Canada.
Official Statements & Responses
The Jets released a brief statement confirming the suspension and announcing Cheveldayoff’s press conference. Cheveldayoff has said he is “listening to offers” for Hellebuyck but has not confirmed any specific trade talks. The organization noted that the suspension is largely symbolic, as NHL players do not receive paychecks until the regular season begins.
On-the-Ground Reports
Jets captain Adam Lowry told Global News that the team must stay focused despite Hellebuyck’s absence. Defenseman Dylan DeMelo added that the club will “go about our business” regardless of the goalie’s presence. Backup goaltender Stuart Skinner said the situation could affect him personally but emphasized his focus on his own job.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Some outlets (e.g., NHL.com) suggested Hellebuyck might still report to camp, while others (TSN’s Darren Dreger, Hockeyfeed) reported that he had already informed the Jets he would not attend. The Jets have not clarified whether the suspension could extend into the regular season, and the exact length remains unknown.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Winnipeg has been my home for my entire NHL career, and I will always be grateful for my time there,” — Connor Hellebuyck
- “My position has not changed, and I believe moving on is the best path forward for me and my family,” — Connor Hellebuyck
- “I have tried to handle the situation quietly and respectfully while giving the organization time to explore its options,” — Connor Hellebuyck
- “It’s funny, it might be me that gets impacted a little bit more,” — Stuart Skinner, veteran
- “He's not waiving to stay in Canada,” — Darren Dreger, hockey insider
What’s Next
Cheveldayoff’s media briefing on September 17, 2026 will address the team’s trade strategy and the status of Hellebuyck’s suspension. The Jets open preseason against the Edmonton Oilers on September 19 and begin the regular season at home versus the Boston Bruins on October 2. If the suspension extends into the regular season, Hellebuyck will forfeit his salary until reinstated, and the Jets will retain full cap relief from his $8.5 million hit.