3 Potential Trade Destinations for Connor Hellebuyck

Buffalo won the Atlantic Division last season, but uncertainty emerged when Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen lost the net to Alex Lyon during the playoffs. Hellebuyck would provide the proven No. 1 presence needed to turn the Sabres into a legitimate Stanley Cup contender. The major obstacle would be convincing Winnipeg to accept a package without stripping too much from Buffalo’s competitive roster.

Carolina Hurricanes

The Carolina Hurricanes have consistently been among the NHL’s strongest defensive teams, but goaltending has remained a concern. Pyotr Kochetkov played only nine games last season before undergoing surgery, leaving questions about his health and ability to handle a starter’s workload.

Adding Hellebuyck behind Carolina’s defensive system could be the final move that pushes the Hurricanes over the top as a dynasty. Carolina’s win-now timeline also makes absorbing his long-term contract considerably easier to justify.

New Jersey Devils

New Jersey’s current goaltending group consists of Jake Allen, Nico Daws and David Rittich following Jacob Markstrom’s departure. Allen is expected to begin the season as the starter, but Hellebuyck would represent a considerable upgrade.

With an established core capable of competing immediately, the Devils should seriously explore what it would cost to acquire an elite goaltender.

Pittsburgh Could Be a Dark Horse

The Pittsburgh Penguins should not be overlooked. They have promising young options in Sergei Murashov and Joel Blomqvist, but Hellebuyck could give Sidney Crosby and the remaining veteran core another opportunity to compete.

Buffalo, Carolina and New Jersey are cleaner fits, but Pittsburgh could emerge if it is willing to make one more aggressive win-now move.