Connor Hellebuyck is about to get exactly what he asked for, and the Winnipeg Jets aren't fighting it anymore.
Multiple reports have the Jets in advanced trade talks with three teams, with a deal expected to close within the next few days.
Elliotte Friedman didn't dance around it on 32 Thoughts.
"I think there's a recognition now that this has to happen and is going to happen," Friedman said.
Now that's a huge announcement from a top insider!
Hellebuyck went public with his trade demand a couple of weeks ago, and that move cost Winnipeg its leverage to work things quietly over the summer.
He posted an .895 save percentage across 57 games this season, going 18-23-8 for a Jets team that finished 35-35-12.
The Carolina Hurricanes, Utah Mammoth, and Buffalo Sabres are the three teams left standing, with Buffalo reportedly the current favorite.
Karel Vejmelka and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen have both blocked Winnipeg on their no-trade lists, and that's been the biggest roadblock in shaping a return.
What GM Kevin Cheveldayoff actually wants in return
Carolina appears willing to include goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov, but Brandon Bussi is reportedly the more appealing option for Cheveldayoff.
The Jets have made clear they don't want a futures-heavy package. If Carolina lands this deal, Alexander Nikishin and a top-nine forward would need to be part of it.
Winnipeg's locker room is already adjusting to life without its longtime goaltender in net.
Mark Scheifele, who posted 103 points in 82 games this season, addressed the situation directly with the media.
"You definitely hear things or see things, and you're unsure," Scheifele said. "But you kind of focus on yourself more."
"He's arguably the best goalie in the world," Scheifele added. "You have to kind of turn your teammate face off and turn your friend face on."
Head coach Scott Arniel now has to figure out his crease alongside Stuart Skinner without knowing yet which team is sending back the return. That part gets sorted out fast, one way or another.
Should the Jets have traded Connor Hellebuyck before he went public with his demand?
Also read on Markerzone.com:
A massive three-team blockbuster is reportedly taking shape involving several NHL stars
