Hellebuyck cites ‘challenging family circumstances’ in letter to Jets fans explaining departure

Following a tumultuous exit from Manitoba, former Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck is explaining why he wanted out of town.

On his personal Instagram, Hellebuyck wrote a letter to Jets fans, giving the reasons why he requested a trade from the only franchise he’d ever known.

Hellebuyck stated that asking to be dealt by the Jets wasn’t an easy decision, but he had his reasons.

“I know my decision to request a trade was disappointing and frustrating for many people, especially those who supported me throughout my career,” Hellebuyck wrote. “I understand those feelings, and I want everyone to know it was an extremely difficult decision. There were several considerations that went into my decision, including some very challenging circumstances involving my family. After a lot of thought and discussion, we ultimately felt that making a change was the best thing for our family. We’ve chosen to keep those personal circumstances private, and I hope people can respect that.”

The 33-year-old’s wishes were finally granted last month, as the Jets sent Hellebuyck to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for forwards Nick Bjugstad, Dawson Mercer and Alexander Command, goaltender Nico Daws, a second-round pick in the 2029 NHL Draft, and a seventh-rounder in 2027.

Hellebuyck did add that Winnipeg will always hold a special place in his heart.

“I’ll always be grateful for the life my family and I built there and for the people who became such an important part of it. It’s where I grew as a player and where we started our family. … To the great Jets fans who supported me and my family, thank you. I’ll never forget the pride I felt representing Winnipeg, and I wish the Jets and the entire community nothing but the best.”

The Commerce, Mich. native spent 11 seasons with the Jets, becoming the best goaltender in franchise history. He won the Vezina Trophy three times and took home the Hart Trophy in 2024-25 as part of an impressive season where the Jets won the Presidents’ Trophy. He led Winnipeg to the Stanley Cup Playoffs seven times, including a memorable run to the Western Conference Final in 2018. In 625 games with the club, Hellebuyck posted a record of 345-208-55, going 24-24 in the postseason.

Hellebuyck hasn’t shown any signs of rust with his new team, giving up just six goals in his first three starts, each time the Devils came out on top.