Connor Hellebuyck's future with the Winnipeg Jets just took another turn, and Scott Arniel could soon face a difficult situation in his locker room.
ESPN insider Emily Kaplan delivered a major update Monday, revealing that at least three teams remain interested in acquiring the star goaltender before Friday's deadline.
But there's a catch. According to Kaplan, there's still no guarantee Winnipeg will complete a trade this week, leaving Hellebuyck's future unresolved.
The Jets are now facing an unusual scenario involving one of their biggest names, with the possibility of bringing him back into the organization while trade discussions continue.
"At least three teams remain in the mix for Connor Hellebuyck, but still no guarantee he's traded by Friday.
If the Jets don't move him this week, the likely plan is to begin paying him but have him stay away from team. Hellebuyck has been getting regular ice time in Michigan."
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Winnipeg set to pay Hellebuyck but keep him away from the team
Kaplan reports that if Hellebuyck isn't moved this week, Winnipeg's likely plan is to begin paying him while keeping him away from the team.
That would prevent an immediate return to the locker room, even though his suspension is expected to end next week following his failure to report to training camp.
Elliotte believes if the Jets can't trade Hellebuyck by Friday when his suspension ends, they will pay him to stay home.
• He says a couple teams hold the keys to this: Buffalo (he'd go there), the Rangers (the Shesterkin injury could send a chain reaction through the goalie market) and Utah (it's a big year and they've been in and out on him).
• Carolina is always around this. Elliotte doesn't see a fit with Los Angeles right now.
• Elliotte was told to watch about saying the players don't want him back.
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Emily Kaplan reveals Winnipeg's difficult Hellebuyck decision
The situation becomes even more interesting considering Hellebuyck has reportedly been getting regular ice time in Michigan, suggesting he has continued skating during his absence.
For Arniel, the concern goes beyond goaltending. Bringing Hellebuyck back after an extended absence could create difficult conversations with players who have been preparing for the season without him.
There's also significant pressure on general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff, who must determine whether one of Winnipeg's most valuable assets can still be moved before the deadline.
Having at least three interested teams gives the Jets options, but interest alone doesn't guarantee a deal. Winnipeg still needs an offer that makes sense for its future.
Keeping Hellebuyck away from the team while paying him would create an uncomfortable arrangement, especially with his status remaining uncertain and the organization trying to move forward.
The next few days could determine whether Winnipeg finally closes this chapter or faces another stretch of uncertainty surrounding its former MVP goaltender.
Friday is now the date to watch. Kaplan's update makes one thing clear: Hellebuyck's situation is far from settled, and the Jets still have a major decision ahead.
Should the Winnipeg Jets trade Connor Hellebuyck before Friday's deadline?
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