Jets trade Connor Hellebuyck to Devils

The Winnipeg Jets traded goaltender Connor Hellebuyck to the New Jersey Devils on Friday, ending a standoff that followed his request to leave the team. New Jersey sent Winnipeg forwards Dawson Mercer and Nick Bjugstad, goaltender Nico Daws, prospect Alexander Command, a 2027 seventh-round pick and a 2029 second-round pick. Hellebuyck, a three-time Vezina Trophy winner, had not played this season after failing to report to Winnipeg’s training camp. The Jets suspended him, and the suspension ended on the day of the trade. He had requested a move during the summer and publicly confirmed that request in August. Speaking to reporters Saturday before the Devils faced the Los Angeles Kings, Hellebuyck said he was eager to return to action and take on the role New Jersey had in mind for him. Devils general manager Sunny Mehta said the goaltender’s enthusiasm for the move was apparent during their first conversation. Coach Sheldon Keefe said Hellebuyck’s arrival would support Jake Allen and give the team greater confidence. The Devils’ first game with Hellebuyck had not been determined as of Saturday. He had been skating in Michigan while trade discussions continued and had not...