Connor Hellebuyck, the Michigan-born-and-raised star goaltender who won gold for Team USA at the 2026 Olympics , confirmed Thursday that he has requested a trade from the Winnipeg Jets .
The Jets have been his only NHL team since he broke into the league during the 2015-16 season.
Hellebuyck confirmed on social media Thursday that he "privately" asked for a trade "several months ago." He confirmed the request on the eve of training camp and thanked Jets fans, a sign his request might be met soon.
"Winnipeg has been my home for my entire NHL career, and I will always be grateful for my team there," Hellebuyck, 33, said in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter). "I have never forgotten June 23, 2012. That's the day Winnipeg took a chance on a goalie playing on Odessa, TX. I gave everything I had from that moment to prove that the Jets made the right decision.
"Several months ago, I privately requested a trade. I have tried to handle the situation quietly and respectfully whilie giving the organization time to explore its options.
"With training camp approaching, I felt it was important to publicly confirm my request. My position has not changed, and I believe moving on is the best path forward for me and my family.
"I appreciate everything Winnipeg Jets fans have meant to me throughout my career and hope a resolution can be reached soon."
Hellebuyck grew up in Commerce in Metro Detroit and attended Walled Lake Northern High School before moving onto his professional hockey career. He still lives in Metro Detroit.
He is a four-time NHL All-Star who has won the Vezina Trophy, awarded to the league's best goalie, three times, including in 2025. He also won the Hart Trophy, given to the NHL's MVP, in 2025.
In February, Hellebuyck helped lead Team USA to its first Olympic gold medal since 1980, making 41 saves in the 2-1, championship-game victory over Team Canada. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
He also was named a Detroit News Michiganian of the Year earlier this year.
[email protected]
@tonypaul1984
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Michigan's Connor Hellebuyck confirms he has asked Jets for a trade