Connor Hellebuyck wanted a change, and he finally has it. Following an 11-year run with the Winnipeg Jets, which ended in a rather ugly divorce, the former Hart Memorial Trophy winner and three-time Vezina Trophy recipient is getting his wish. He made his New Jersey Devils and season debut in Tuesday's road matchup versus the Dallas Stars. It will take time for most people to get used to his new uniform, but The Garden State is likely having little trouble making the adjustment.
Displeased in the direction of the franchise, Hellebuyck demanded a trade from Winnipeg in the spring. Booth sides engaged in a tense standoff that included a suspension and endless speculation. The Devils finally completed a deal with the Jets last week, seemingly enhancing their competitive aspirations for the 2026-27 campaign.
First Hellebuyck sighting in warmies for NJ 👀
Hellebuyck is set to start his FIRST game tonight with the Devils 😤 pic.twitter.com/Tqj63JGsSe
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) October 27, 2026
The 33-year-old goaltender has experienced his share of shortcomings in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but he is a game-changer who can help New Jersey return to the postseason and erase its recent disappointment. He might have some rust to shake off first, though.
Article Continues BelowIt is hard enough getting acclimated to a new squad and city, but Hellebuyck also has to reclaim his top form after a lengthy layoff. The Devils will try to lighten his workload in American Airlines Center. They led 1-0 after the first period.
The pressure is always high after a star player forces his way off a team, but Connor Hellebuyck should gain at least some peace of mind now that he gets to start fresh. Dallas hopes to change that before night's end, however.