WINNIPEG — The Winnipeg Jets’ recent two‑year contract extension with backup goaltender Stuart Skinner has ignited speculation about the future of franchise starter Connor Hellebuyck, whose $68 million deal runs through the 2027‑28 season. While the Jets have not confirmed any trade discussions, NHL analysts say the move gives Winnipeg additional flexibility to explore roster changes during the upcoming offseason.
The Jets announced on Monday that Skinner, 26, will remain in Winnipeg on a two‑year, $9.8 million deal that includes a $5 million signing bonus. The contract was reported by the team’s official channels and confirmed by the league’s central registry.
Hellebuyck, 31, is under a seven‑year, $68 million extension signed in 2022 that makes him one of the highest‑paid goaltenders in the league. He posted a 2.79 goals‑against average and a .909 save percentage in the 2025‑26 season, helping Winnipeg clinch a playoff berth.
In the wake of Skinner’s signing, several hockey‑focused media outlets and former players have identified the Buffalo Sabres and the Carolina Hurricanes as potential destinations for Hellebuyck, should the Jets consider a trade. The speculation is based on both teams’ need for an elite goaltender and their cap space to absorb Hellebuyck’s contract.
“Winnipeg now has a clear path to either retain Hellebuyck as their starter or move him for a package that could reshape their roster,” said former NHL scout Mark Cunningham, who tracks trade activity for a sports‑analytics firm. “The Sabres and Hurricanes are the logical fits because they have a goalie vacancy and enough cap headroom to absorb a $68 million commitment.”
No official statements have been released by the Jets, Sabres, Hurricanes, or the NHL Players’ Association regarding trade talks. The league’s transaction tracker shows no pending paperwork for Hellebuyck.
Analysis: The Skinner deal could serve two strategic purposes for Winnipeg. First, it solidifies depth at the position, allowing the Jets to contemplate a trade without fearing an immediate gap behind Hellebuyck. Second, it may increase the team’s bargaining power in negotiations, as the Sabres and Hurricanes would acquire a goaltender already integrated into a system that recently secured a reliable backup. However, moving a player on a high‑value contract carries risk; any trade would likely require the Jets to receive a substantial return of prospects, draft picks, or salary‑cap relief. The speculation also reflects broader offseason dynamics, where several clubs are looking to re‑tool after a competitive but ultimately disappointing 2025‑26 campaign.
The Jets are expected to enter the offseason with a roster that includes a mix of veteran talent and emerging prospects. Whether Hellebuyck remains the franchise’s cornerstone or becomes a trade asset will depend on Winnipeg’s assessment of its rebuilding timeline and the offers that materialize from interested clubs.
Sources
– “NHL trade rumor: Buffalo Sabres and Carolina Hurricanes emerge as top landing spots for $68M Winnipeg Jets star,” Times of India, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nhl/news/nhl-trade-rumor-buffalo-sabres-and-carolina-hurricanes-emerge-as-top-landing-spots-for-68m-winnipeg-jets-star/articleshow/132160964.cms
Story synopsis gathered from: Times of India – Top Stories — source
Corrections
If you believe this article contains an error, contact Herald Express with the source URL and supporting evidence.
