Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, firmly entrenched with the New Jersey Devils after his Oct. 23 trade, reached out to his former Winnipeg Jets fans before his return there next week.
"I know my decision to request a trade was disappointing and frustrating for so many people, especially those who supported me throughout my career," said Hellebuyck, who had beensuspended for not reporting to training camp. "I understand those feelings, and I want everyone to know it was an extremely difficult decision.
"There were several considerations that went into my decision, including some very challenging circumstances involving my family. After a lot of thought and discussion, we ultimately felt that make a change was the best thing for our family. We've chosen
to keep those personal circumstances private, and I hope people can respect that."
General manager Kevin Cheveldayoff, in a Sept. 17 news conference addressing the goalie's absence from camp, alluded to social media backlash that Hellebuyck's family received after the U.S. Olympian beat Canada in the 2026 gold-medal game and the team attended President Donald Trump's State of the Union address.
"What they endured, they shouldn't have had to," Cheveldayoff said in September.
Hellebuyck, who is signed through 2031, was dealt to the Devils for Dawson Mercer, Nick Bjugstad, Nico Daws, prospect Alexander Command and two draft picks.
The three-time Vezina Trophy winner and 2024-25 NHL MVP has won all three of his starts while the Jets had a nine-game losing streak that ended on Tuesday, Nov. 2 with a record-setting comeback.
Hellebuyck returns to Winnipeg with the Devils on Nov. 10 and the goalie praised Jets fans and the area in his Instagram statement.
"When I think about my years in Winnipeg, I'll always be grateful for the life my family and I built there and for the people who became such an important part of it," he said. "It's where I grew as a player and where we started our family.
"One of the things I've always love about Manitoba is the connection people have to the outdoors. With so many beautiful lakes and places to enjoy nature, it's a special part of life there. Some of my favorite memories away from the rink will always be the time I spent on the water fishing."
He added: "To the great Jets fans who supported me and my family, thank you. I'll never forget the pride I felt representing Winnipeg, and I wish the Jets and the entire community nothing but the best."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Connor Hellebuyck cites 'challenging circumstances' with family for trade request
