Jets ready for season opener despite lingering Hellebuyck trade request
Posted October 2, 2026 3:55 pm.
Saturday, Canada Life Centre will be packed with Jets fans for the season opener against Boston, but one person who won’t be here is Connor Hellebuyck.
The former Hart winner’s trade request is still unresolved, but the team says they’re focusing on who’s in the building.
“We’ve talked about right from the get go, theres 23 guys in the room and that’s what we’re focused on, each night theres 20 guys stepping onto that bench and ready to play a game and we cant worry about what’s not here, we’re focusing on the group that’s here,” said Scott Arniel, Jets head coach.
Tyrel Baurer, Jets rookie, said, “I never played with him, you know, a few camps here and there, shot some pucks on him, but I think we’re focused on tonight; I think we’re focused on whatever Boston is going to throw at us.”
The franchise goalie made waves with his trade request in August, despite being under contract until 2031, and hasn’t reported to the team since, and obviously, it’s evoked a wide range of emotions from the fanbase.
“I mean, it’s invalid because he signed an eight-year contract, so you gotta honour it,” said one Jets fan.
Another said, “So sad, it really is. I liked the guy, and I can’t believe Winnipeggers were mean to him; that’s not us, and I hope he doesn’t hold that against all of us. If he wants a trade, break my heart but… yeah.”
Another Jets fan said, “Ahh, it breaks my heart. I think he should get back on the ice. He’s a Jet; until he’s not a Jet, he needs to get back on the ice and do his job.”
With Hellebuyck out of the picture, newly acquired vet Stuart Skinner will be the man between the pipes as the season kicks off.
“His work ethic, his compete, you can see theres a guy there that’s been all the way the way to two stanley cup finals, and he’s excited, he’s got a great personality,” said Arniel.
Puck drop goes at 7 pm.
