NHL Rumors: Connor Hellebuyck talks picking up

Connor Hellebuyck talks picking up with maybe three teams involved the most

The Fourth Period: Connor Hellebuyck trade talks are picking up a bit wth the Friday deadline for his ‘return’ to the Winnipeg Jets. The Carolina Hurricanes, Buffalo Sabres, Utah Mammoth, Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks are among the teams that have shown some interest in the goaltender. Some more serious than others.

Elliotte Friedman on 32 Thoughts said that the Buffalo Sabres and Utah Mammoth could be the most interested teams involved, with the New York Rangers potentially playing a role in the transaction. Sabres Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has the Jets on his no-trade list, but could be a stopgap this year with the Rangers. Friedman said they’ve been doing their due diligence on Luukkonen and Karel Vejmelka.

The Sabres had discussed Jack Quinn, Ryan McLeod and Radim Mrtka back in June when the teams were talking.

Goaltending may be an area of concern for the Utah Mammoth

Michael Amato of Sportsnet: When looking at the play of the Utah Mammoth this season, goaltending could be one area of concern. So far this season, Karel Vejmelka has a .879 save percentage, much lower than his career average of .899. He was 29th in the league entering Saturday for goals saved above expected.

Would the addition of Connor Hellebuyck get them some Stanley Cup contention consideration? There has been speculation about their interest. Is this the season they want to make a big push? If the Jets want a goalie in return, Vejmelka has a 10-team no-trade list and Sebastian Cossa (acquire for a 1st at the draft) doesn’t have trade protection.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are looking to get younger

The Fourth Period: Elliotte Friedman noted on Saturday Headlines that the Pittsburgh Penguins could be willing to move some veteran forwards to clear roster space for some of their younger players. They’re looking for picks and prospects.

Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell have been in the rumor mill since last season, and are both in the final year of their contracts. Rakell has an eight-team, no-trade list. Defenseman Erik Karlsson is in the last year of his deal at a $10 million cap, could become a trade candidate as well. He has a no-movement clause, and the Pens may need to retain salary.