Jets suspend Hellebuyck for missing camp amid trade standoff

The Winnipeg Jets suspended goaltender Connor Hellebuyck on Wednesday for failing to report to training camp, escalating a standoff with the three-time Vezina Trophy winner who has publicly requested a trade. The suspension was announced after Hellebuyck did not appear for the required medicals and physicals, with the first on-ice practice scheduled for Thursday. General manager Kevin Cheveldayoff addressed the media on Thursday, stating the team has been working to find a trade since Hellebuyck's request in April but has been unable to reach a deal. "We expect that a level of return would be commensurate to that," Cheveldayoff said, citing the high asking price and a limited market for starting goaltenders as key obstacles. He emphasized that his priority is to "get this right" for the franchise and its fans. Hellebuyck, 33, publicly confirmed his trade request on August 27 through a statement from his agent, Ray Petkau. "My position has not changed, and I believe moving on is the best path forward for me and my family," Hellebuyck wrote. The goaltender is under contract through the 2030-31 season with an average annual value of $8.