Hellebuyck Trade Talks Linger as Hurricanes, Blues and Oilers Monitor Developments; Center Depth Remains a Focus for Edmonton

Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck’s holdout has carried into the regular season.

The 33‑year‑old Hellebuyck, a three‑time Vezina Trophy winner, first requested a trade over a month ago and has since been suspended without pay by the Jets for failing to report to training camp.

Earlier this month, Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff indicated the door remains open for Hellebuyck to return and said the organization would continue seeking a mutually beneficial trade.

Nevertheless, both parties appear likely to wait for the right opportunity before a deal materializes.

During the off‑season, the San Jose Sharks were reportedly among several teams that expressed interest in Hellebuyck.

Sheng Peng of San Jose Hockey Now reported that Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman previously noted the Sharks “kicked the tires” on Hellebuyck.

Peng questioned whether the Sharks would seize the chance, pointing out that the Jets were reportedly seeking a first‑round pick, a top‑six forward (preferably a center), and a goalie or prospect. He suggested that a package featuring forward Collin Graf and goalie Yaroslav Askarov might be required, calling the demand steep for an aging, high‑priced goaltender.

A Hurricanes Trade For Connor Hellebuyck Reportedly Could Depend On The Blues And Alexander Nikishin
The St. Louis Blues remain interested in Alexander Nikishin, but now, their interest has direct implications on the Carolina Hurricanes’ pursuit of Connor Hellebuyck.

On Monday, Friedman noted that the Jets had claimed Clay Stevenson off waivers from the Washington Capitals, speculating that a stable goaltending situation could lessen Winnipeg’s need for a goalie in any Hellebuyck trade, should Stevenson become a reliable backup to Stuart Skinner.

According to Friedman, the Carolina Hurricanes remain in the mix as potential suitors. He downplayed the possibility of involving Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin in a deal, arguing that if such an exchange were viable, Hellebuyck would already be in Carolina. The 24‑year‑old restricted free agent has requested a trade and is reportedly not interested in rejoining the Jets.

Friedman suggested the Hurricanes might be exploring a three‑team transaction to acquire Hellebuyck while moving Nikishin to a club where he would be willing to sign.

The St. Louis Blues and Nashville Predators have shown interest in Nikishin. A potential June trade with the New York Rangers nearly materialized, but negotiations collapsed when the two sides could not agree on a new contract.

Oilers Searching For A Center?

Turning to the Montreal Canadiens, forward Kirby Dach continues to be a focal point of trade speculation.

The 25‑year‑old versatile forward has been linked to both the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames, though the Oilers are reported to be the most ardent suitors.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman noted that the Oilers value Dach for his right‑hand shot and the team’s need for a right‑shooting center. Dach, on a one‑year deal, is currently battling for a roster spot with the Canadiens.

Friedman added that the Oilers also evaluated Seattle Kraken center Shane Wright. The Kraken reportedly explored Wright’s trade value this summer but were unable to secure a satisfactory package for the 22‑year‑old, reportedly because of a high asking price that keeps him in Seattle.

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