Hellebuyck's Holdout Costs Him Almost $1 Million Before New Jersey Trade
Connor Hellebuyck's suspension ended Friday after he missed the first 10 games of Winnipeg's season, and he forfeited roughly $925,000 of his $7.5 million salary. The Jets suspended him after he requested a trade and did not report to training camp, then dealt him to New Jersey. Winnipeg went 4-3-3 during his absence.
Winnipeg’s suspension of Hellebuyck concluded Friday after he missed the opening 10 contests. His $7.5 million salary for 2026-27 was reduced by about $925,000, while his cap charge remained $8.5 million. The Jets went 4-3-3 without him, using Stuart Skinner and Clay Stevenson in net.
Winnipeg had suspended him Sept. 16 following his trade request and training-camp absence. New Jersey acquired him for Dawson Mercer, Nico Daws, Nick Bjugstad, Alexander Command’s rights, a 2029 second-rounder and a 2027 seventh-rounder. Hellebuyck, 33, posted a 23-23-11 record and .895 save percentage last season.
The outcome may shape how fans and players view holdouts, as a star goalie lost pay but secured a move. It could influence future trade-request strategies by players and clubs, and affect Devils and Jets supporters’ expectations. For casual observers, it may reinforce that contract obligations carry financial consequences, though the long-term labor-relations effect remains uncertain.