Hellebuyck cites family circumstances in Jets trade request

Connor Hellebuyck said difficult family circumstances were among several considerations behind his request to leave the Winnipeg Jets, explaining in a letter to fans that he and his family decided a change was best while keeping the details private. The New Jersey Devils goaltender posted the letter on Instagram on November 4, ahead of his scheduled return to Winnipeg on November 10. Hellebuyck acknowledged that his decision disappointed people who had supported him during his years with the Jets and said it had been difficult. He wrote that the family had chosen to keep its personal circumstances private and asked fans to respect that choice. The Jets traded Hellebuyck to New Jersey in October after he requested a move from Winnipeg. The deal brought the Jets forwards Dawson Mercer and Nick Bjugstad, goaltender Nico Daws, Alexander Command and two draft picks, according to reports. The accounts differ on the exact trade date, placing it on October 23 or October 24; both describe the transaction as occurring in October. Hellebuyck had confirmed his trade request publicly in August. He did not provide further details about the family circumstances in his November letter. His...