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Winnipeg trade Hellebuyck to New Jersey

The Winnipeg Jets traded goaltender Connor Hellebuyck to the New Jersey Devils for four players and draft picks. General manager Kevin Cheveldayoff said the timing was unrelated to Winnipeg’s four-game losing streak. The return includes Dawson Mercer, who can play centre, and goaltender Nico Daws, while Nick Bjugstad remains sidelined following surgery.

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An open hockey bag holds a Winnipeg Jets jersey and goalie gloves, with a New Jersey Devils jersey draped across its edge.

Hellebuyck leaves Winnipeg for the Devils

The Winnipeg Jets traded goaltender Connor Hellebuyck to the New Jersey Devils, changing the two clubs’ rosters in the National Hockey League. Winnipeg received four players and draft picks in return. The transaction ended Hellebuyck’s spell with the Jets, where the former Vezina Trophy winner had been a major figure.[1], [2]

General manager Kevin Cheveldayoff said the process involved identifying clubs with genuine interest and needs, then establishing which assets they were willing to trade. He said he was comfortable with the return. His assessment came as Winnipeg turned its attention to the incoming players and its remaining dressing-room group.[1]

Mercer offers another option at centre

Dawson Mercer, aged 24, joins as an established forward. Cheveldayoff said Mercer began his career at centre and retains the flexibility to play there if needed. Goaltender Nico Daws adds depth at his position, with Winnipeg carrying three goalies for the time being. The agreement also brought a prospect into the organization.[1]

Bjugstad remains sidelined after surgery

Nick Bjugstad recently underwent surgery and is out for four to six months. Cheveldayoff said the forward had a torn muscle and remained under doctors’ care. The general manager also rejected a link between the trade’s timing and Winnipeg’s four straight defeats, the latest a 3-2 overtime loss to the Stars.[1]

References

  1. News sourceWinnipeg JetsJets trade Hellebuyck to Devils for four players and draft picks↩1↩2↩3↩4
  2. News sourceESPNHellebuyck heads to Devils in exchange for players and picks↩

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