Connor Hellebuyck trade rumors are again getting attention across the NHL. The Winnipeg Jets goaltender has been linked to a move away from the team during the offseason, and the Buffalo Sabres remain among the top teams interested in him.

A new update has made the situation even more interesting. NHL insider David Pagnotta recently talked about Hellebuyck’s future. Pagnotta said Buffalo is still a team to watch and added that Hellebuyck wants to join the Sabres.

The report has sparked increased talk of a possible Hellebuyck trade to Buffalo. The Sabres need a reliable goalie, while Hellebuyck continues to rank among the NHL’s best goalies after another strong season with Winnipeg.

The NHL Rumour Report shared his comments on X. Pagnotta also provided another update on the trade talks. 

In another post shared by the NHL Rumour Report on X, the insider said, “Those conversations I think are going to continue, I haven't heard it's dead in the water yet.”

The comments suggest that talks between the Jets and Sabres could still be happening, but both teams have not reached a deal yet. Since Hellebuyck has a no-trade clause, his preferred destination could play an important role in any trade.

Sabres still favored but Jets could explore other options

Winnipeg Free Press reporter Mike McIntyre said a Connor Hellebuyck trade is still very possible, but his next team and the timing of the move remain unclear.

McIntyre also said the Buffalo Sabres are the “most logical landing spot” for Hellebuyck. He added that the San Jose Sharks could also be an option because Hellebuyck’s former teammate Eric Comrie now plays there.

The Jets could get strong returns from Buffalo, including NHL-ready players and young prospects. Sabre Noise’s Brandon Croce reported that earlier talks between the teams had problems because Winnipeg wanted the fourth overall pick, while Buffalo wanted a different package.

Right now, the Sabres may have an advantage because Hellebuyck reportedly wants to join them. However, the Jets still need to decide if Buffalo’s offer is good enough.

A big trade could still happen before the season starts, but everything will depend on talks between the two teams.

What do you think? Will Connor Hellebuyck finally become a Buffalo Sabre, or will another team enter the race? Let us know in the comments. 

Read more at the NHL Fan Central.

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Kapil Manghnani brings over 4.5 years of experience in sports journalism, covering a wide range of sports, including Soccer, NHL, Tennis, Gymnastics, NASCAR, Swimming, and more. He has written for leading sports platforms, producing everything from breaking news and features to in-depth analysis, opinion pieces, long-form stories, and short-form content. Beyond articles, he has also scripted long-form storytelling videos for YouTube channels. His work focuses on delivering well-researched, engaging, and reader-first sports content across multiple formats.

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Edited by

Suyashdeep Sason