Major Turn of Events Concerning Connor Hellebyuck
A few weeks ago, everything seemed to indicate that star goaltender Connor Hellebuyck would be traded this summer. He had informed the Winnipeg Jets management that he would not sign a contract extension after his current one expires on July 1st.
However, according to information reported by Elliotte Friedman, a significant twist in the situation could occur. The chances of the 30-year-old netminder wearing the colors of a new team in the 2023-2024 season seem to be becoming less and less likely.
Knowing full well that he is at the peak of his career and that this may be his last opportunity to secure a lucrative contract in the NHL, Hellebuyck reportedly seeks a deal similar to the one signed by Carey Price. Naturally, this situation has dampened the enthusiasm of some general managers who were interested in acquiring him.
In addition to having to part with several important assets to acquire the goaltender, any team wanting to keep him long-term will also have to commit to an annual salary of around 9 to 10 million dollars.
There is no doubt that Kevin Cheveldayoff will face an enormously difficult decision as Hellebuyck's value continues to decrease with time, considering that he could become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the upcoming season. Certainly, this complex situation is likely to cause many headaches for the Jets' general manager in the coming weeks, if not months.
However, Connor Hellebuyck is considered part of the NHL elite, standing at an imposing 6'4" and 210 pounds. Since joining the NHL, the veteran goaltender has compiled an impressive record of 238 wins, 154 losses, and 37 overtime losses. He has also maintained a save percentage of 0.916 and a goals-against average of 2.66 during his eight seasons with the Canadian team.
Do you believe that the goaltender deserves to earn an annual salary of around 9 million dollars?
Credits : Habs & LNH
| POLL | ||
Do you believe that the goaltender deserves to earn an annual salary of around 9 million dollars? | ||
| Yes | 26 | 25.5 % |
| No | 76 | 74.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
