Devils Bench Hellebuyck for Winnipeg Return
General manager Sunny Mehta cites reduced win probability as the reason the goalie will sit out his first game back in Canada.
By Kofi Costa ·
New Jersey Devils goaltender Connor Hellebuyck will not start Tuesday night in Winnipeg, the franchise confirmed on Sunday. The decision comes ahead of his first matchup against the Jets at Canada Life Centre since his trade.
Hellebuyck stopped 23 shots during a 4-0 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Sunday night. Following that win, the Devils informed the 35-year-old that he would rest for the upcoming contest in Manitoba.
Devils general manager Sunny Mehta described the choice as an organizational move that underwent extensive debate. Mehta noted that Hellebuyck expressed a strong desire to take the ice on Tuesday. However, the front office determined that his participation could lower the team's expected win probability.
The Jets sent Hellebuyck to New Jersey on Oct. 23. In return, Winnipeg received forward Dawson Mercer, goaltender Nico Daws, and a second-round selection in the 2029 NHL draft. This transaction concluded his tenure in the city after he requested a transfer.
Hellebuyck had five years remaining on a seven-year contract worth $59.1 million when he asked to leave in October 2023. On Sunday, he acknowledged the disappointment of missing the return trip but accepted the team's reasoning. He stated that while he personally wanted to play, he understood the benefit to the group.
The American goalie planned to meet with Winnipeg media before the game. He said he loves the city and enjoys the process of facing the public reaction, even though the decision was out of his control. Hellebuyck admitted that Winnipeg holds a sour taste for him but chose to focus on his cherished moments there.
He added that he does not know how fans will respond with him off the ice. Hellebuyck said he can only speak to his memories of the city. He emphasized that despite his perception in the market, he will choose love.
