Winnipeg sports news: Connor Hellebuyck has written directly to Jets fans, thanking Winnipeg for his years with the club and explaining why he asked to leave, just days before he returns to Canada Life Centre as a New Jersey Devil.
By Maplestime Sports Desk | Winnipeg, Manitoba | November 4, 2026
Sources: NHL.com, CBC Manitoba, theScore | Last updated: November 4, 2026
Key Takeaways
- Connor Hellebuyck posted a letter to Jets fans on social media on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
- He thanked Winnipeg, the Jets organization, his teammates and the people behind the scenes for his time with the club.
- He said family circumstances were part of his decision to ask for a trade, and he asked that those private circumstances be respected.
- He acknowledged that his decision disappointed and frustrated many fans who supported him.
- He returns to Winnipeg with New Jersey on Tuesday, November 10, for the Devils game at Canada Life Centre.
What Hellebuyck Said
Hellebuyck opened his letter by looking back on the life he and his family built in Winnipeg. He wrote about growing as a player in the city and starting his family there, and he thanked the people who became an important part of that life. He also thanked Jets owner Mark Chipman, general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff and the entire organization for the opportunity and trust they showed him over the years.
His closing message to fans was direct: “To the great Jets fans who supported me and my family, thank you. I will never forget the pride I felt representing Winnipeg, and I wish the Jets and the entire community nothing but the best.”
Why He Asked for a Trade
Hellebuyck said several considerations went into his decision, including very challenging circumstances involving his family. After thought and discussion with his family, he said they felt a change was the best thing for the family. He chose to keep those personal circumstances private.
He also addressed the reaction in Winnipeg head on. He said he understands the disappointment and frustration from fans who supported him throughout his career, and he described the decision as extremely difficult.
The Jets dealt Hellebuyck to the New Jersey Devils in late October, ending his long run as Winnipeg’s starting goaltender. The letter is his fullest public explanation since that trade.
Related: Winnipeg Jets vs Montreal Canadiens November 3 2026: Jets Beat Canadiens 5 to 4 in Overtime
What Comes Next
The timing matters for Jets fans. Winnipeg snapped a nine game winless run on Tuesday night, November 3, with a 5 to 4 overtime win in Montreal, a comeback from 4 to 0 down late in the third period. Hellebuyck’s letter arrived the next day, as the mood around the team shifted from a long losing run to a famous win.
Now the focus turns to November 10. Hellebuyck will walk back into Canada Life Centre wearing a Devils jersey for the first time since the trade. That night will test how Winnipeg greets a goaltender who gave the city so much, then asked to leave.
Maplestime will provide updates from Connor Hellebuyck and the Winnipeg Jets as announcements are made.
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Do you think Jets fans should cheer Hellebuyck on his November 10 return, or is the hurt from his trade request still too fresh? Tell us in the comments. And share this with every Jets fan following the team this week.
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