Ex-RCMP official warns NHL teams amid Connor Hellebuyck trade request

Former Royal Canadian Mounted Police assistant commissioner Dale Sheehan has warned NHL teams against allowing players to dictate trade outcomes after Connor Hellebuyck’s public request.

>Hellebuyck confirmed on August 27 that he wants to leave the Winnipeg Jets. The three-time Vezina Trophy winner said, “Several months ago, I privately requested a trade. I have tried to handle the situation quietly and respectfully while giving the organization time to explore its options. … My position has not changed.”

>MORE: Canadiens urged to call Jets about Mark Scheifele amid Connor Hellebuyck trade request

>Sheehan addressed the issue on X. He argued that teams risk damaging long-term planning when players can force moves despite existing contracts.

>“If NHL teams don’t start standing up to players demanding trades they may as well stop signing long term contracts,” Sheehan wrote. “Giving players a massive, disruptive edge ruins years of planning and changes the economics of the sport.”

>His strongest point focused on contractual authority. “Make them play or let them sit. A contract is a contract,” Sheehan added.

Connor Hellebuyck situation puts Jets’ structure under pressureWinnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck (37) warms up before a game at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: James Carey Lauder-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Hellebuyck’s case carries significant weight because he remains under contract through 2030-31. He signed a seven-year, $59.5 million deal in 2023, carrying an $8.5 million annual average value.

>The goalie also owns a full no-movement clause, which gives him considerable control over where he could go. That limits Winnipeg’s options while forcing general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff to protect the team’s trade value.

>Cheveldayoff has already said Winnipeg is listening to offers. After Hellebuyck went public, he said the organization would handle the situation “in a thoughtful manner,” with “no update at this time.”

>MORE: Avalanche’s Cale Makar speaks out after becoming NHL’s highest-paid player

>From a team-building perspective, Sheehan’s concern is understandable. Teams commit years and millions to core players, then build contracts, salary structures and roster plans around those commitments.

>Hellebuyck’s situation also comes after a difficult season. He posted a 2.86 goals-against average and .895 save percentage across 57 games, while Winnipeg finished 35-35-12 and missed the playoffs.

>The Jets therefore face a difficult balance. They must respect an elite goaltender’s wishes while ensuring any trade protects their competitive structure and future assets.

>—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —