Winnipeg Jets Face Goalie Challenge
The Winnipeg Jets are set to face a significant challenge as their key goalie, Connor Hellebuyck, is expected to be sidelined for a period of 4 to 6 weeks due to a scheduled minor arthroscopic surgery on his knee, as reported by a source to ESPN.
Hellebuyck’s Achievements
At 32, Hellebuyck has established himself as a dominant force in the NHL, having won the Vezina Trophy—the award recognizing the league’s best goaltender—twice in a row. He aimed to join the exclusive club of players who have won the award three consecutive times, a feat last achieved by legendary goalie Dominik Hasek between 1996 and 1999. Hellebuyck is a three-time Vezina winner and has earned a place as a finalist for the honor five times throughout his career.
Current Season Performance
This season, he has recorded an 8-6-0 record, with a .913 save percentage and a 2.51 goals-against average across 14 games. Currently, the Jets hold third place in the Central Division, boasting a points percentage of .632. Hellebuyck’s last appearance was a game against Calgary, in which he successfully defended against 31 out of 34 shots and contributed to a shootout victory over the Flames.
Next Steps for the Jets
In light of his absence, the Jets have called up goaltender Thomas Milic from the AHL’s Manitoba Moose, who will share net duties with Eric Comrie until Hellebuyck’s return.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Hellebuyck is anticipated to represent Team USA as their primary goaltender in the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, following his previous role in the 4 Nations Face-Off, where the team fell short to Canada in the finals. This injury news was initially disclosed by TSN.
