The New Jersey Devils’ decision to keep Connor Hellebuyck out of the lineup for his return to Winnipeg has drawn plenty of reactions, and Henrik Lundqvist did not hold back on the matter.

Hellebuyck did not start Tuesday night against the Winnipeg Jets, his first game back since being traded to New Jersey. Devils general manager Sunny Mehta explained that Hellebuyck “playing in this game would potentially give us a reduction in our expected win probability,” even though the goaltender was adamant that he wanted to play.

On TNT’s NHL coverage, Lundqvist said Hellebuyck should have had the final say.

“I think he earned that respect where he has that power to make that decision. But having said that, it’s not like he’s coming home for a love fest. He’s going back to Winnipeg and it’s going to be a hostile environment,” he said. “But of course, I think Connor Hellebuyck has earned the right to make that decision after 11 years playing there, done everything for that organization.”

“I would not leave that room with that GM until he says you’re playing.” @HLundqvist shares his thoughts on Hellebuyck returning to Winnipeg but not getting the start 👀 pic.twitter.com/TBTZC2kxCQ

— TNT Sports U.S. (@TNTSportsUS) November 11, 2026

The former New York Rangers star then explained what he would have done.

“If I really wanted to play, I would not leave that room with that GM until he says you’re playing. Not after what he’s accomplished over the last 11 years,” Lundqvist said. “It’s different if he came into Jersey and he was 0-5 and he played a couple of years in the league. No, this is a different situation.”

The Hall of Famer also sided with Hellebuyck when it came to the treatment he has received from some fans since asking out of Winnipeg.

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“When people cross the line and attack family members, kids, wife, they have not signed up for it. So that’s where my loyalty is with Connor,” Lundqvist said.

Hellebuyck admitted he was disappointed by the decision but understood it. “I’m disappointed, but I understand. Selfishly, I want to play,” he said.

The three-time Vezina Trophy winner spent his entire career with the Jets before requesting a trade over the summer. He was eventually dealt to the Devils in October in a package headlined by Dawson Mercer.

Mercer made sure to get the last laugh on Tuesday. The forward scored twice, including the game-winner, as the Jets beat the Devils 4-2 to spoil Hellebuyck’s homecoming.