The rumors connecting the Buffalo Sabres and Connor Hellebuyck aren't going away, and in fact could be ramping up here in the coming days. On Saturday, Elliotte Friedman reported that Connor Hellebuyck had actually been suspended to begin the season and that the suspension ends on October 23rd.
This seemingly gives the Jets, and any team wanting to trade for him, a reasonable deadline. The reason is that after that date, Hellebuyck could return to Winnipeg, but it doesn't sound like he will be welcomed back, with comments like this one from Adam Lowry.
#NHLJets captain Adam Lowry, post-game, on the Connor Hellebuyck situation and possibility of him returning to team by Friday.
— Mike McIntyre (@mikemcintyrewpg) October 17, 2026
“If he does show up, conversations are going to have to happen.”
Buffalo Sabres reportedly have "re-engaged in trade discussions" with the Jets about Connor Hellebuyck
This report by Friedman is notable because, shortly after, Chad DeDominicis of Expected Buffalo reported that the Sabres had begun having trade discussions again with the Jets around the star goalie. DeDominicis made it clear that it doesn't mean a deal is imminent, but the two sides are talking.
From the Sabres' perspective, it certainly makes sense, as goaltending has been one of their biggest issues outside of their special teams. They are allowing the sixth-most goals per game at 3.67, while starting goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has the seventh-worst Goals Saved Above Expected at -4.3, according to MoneyPuck.
The pursuit of Hellebuyck is nothing new for general manager Jarmo Kekalainen, as he had extensive discussions with the Jets around the NHL Draft. However, the two sides couldn't align on the return, as the Jets wanted the fourth overall pick, but the Sabres were not willing to move it without getting the eighth pick in return.
The Jets didn't want to go there, and with those draft picks no longer available, along with Luukkonen having a five-team no-trade list that kicked in July 1st, the two sides probably have to start over on what a trade package might look like.
Another layer to this trade is that Hellebuyck has a no-movement clause and would need to waive it anywhere he would be traded to. The Sabres were reportedly one of the teams he would do that for, but with other teams out there that need goalies, like maybe the Utah Mammoth, LA Kings, or even the Carolina Hurricanes, could be attractive enough for him to waive that clause.
It is a trade saga that has felt like it has dragged on forever but it might be coming to an end and the question now is whether the Sabres are able to get it done or if another team emerges this week.
Add us as a preferred source on Google