Amid an unresolved trade request, Connor Hellebuyck was suspended by the Winnipeg Jets after failing to report to training camp on Wednesday.
Hellebuyck had until Wednesday afternoon to report to the first day of camp and had informed the team of his intentions not to attend, per Elliotte Friedman.
General manager Kevin Cheveldayoff spoke to media about the suspension Thursday morning. He said after Hellebuyck failed to report for training camp and team dinner, he called his representation to inform them of the suspension.
“This really isn’t about finances,” he said, via a 680 CJOB broadcast of the presser. “Just about procedural and the way things work procedurally in the NHL.”
“This situation is what it is,” he continued. “We’ve been dealing with it for a period of time now, and just looking to find a resolution that works for both sides.”
Despite the suspension, he claimed Hellebuyck suiting up again in a Winnipeg jersey was not entirely off the table. “No doors are closed,” he said. “He’s a player thats under contract for five years. But at the end of the day that’ll be his choice.”
“Nothing at this point in time is final. Again [the suspension is] a procedural thing,” he said. “We’ve been trying to make a trade that works for both sides for a long time and we’ll continue to do that.”
Cheveldayoff maintained throughout that his goal for the team was to be competitive, and that was the goal behind any trades involving Hellebuyck.
He also addressed rumors of a gentleman’s agreement on the contract that if the team is not competitive, Hellebuyck will be moved. “First of all, a contract is a contract in the NHL. Period.
“There are no side agreements,” he said. “The league does not allow for that.”
Cheveldayoff was not concerned that the situation was a distraction or problem for the players at training camp. “Our room is a pretty unique thing,” he said. “Our room has never really been stronger.”
Hellebuyck publicly confirmed he had requested a trade, through a statement posted by his agent, on August 27 after months of rumors and speculation.
Hellebuyck requested the trade during his exit interview, and requested it be kept quiet for the time being. He and his representation did not inform Cheveldayoff they would be releasing the statement that day, but had made him aware they intended to at some point.
“Several months ago, I privately requested a trade,” the statement reads. “I have tried to handle the situation quietly and respectfully while giving the organization time to explore its options. With training camp approaching, I felt it was important to publicly confirm my request.”
The three-time Vezina winner and 2024-25 Hart winner, is entering year three of his seven year, $59.5 millions ($8.5 millions AAV) contract. Hellebuyck has played all 11 of his NHL seasons with the Jets, who drafted him in 2012, recording 345 wins in 625 games. He struggled last season, recording a.895 save percentage, the first sub-.900 save percentage in his NHL career and missed about a month due to an injury.
