Buffalo Sabres could land Hellebuyck in blockbuster trade this summer

The Buffalo Sabres are on the brink of a major roster shakeup after inching closer to landing Winnipeg Jets star goalie Connor Hellebuyck in a blockbuster trade.

What happened?

Three days after the 2026 NHL Draft, the Jets remain aggressive in their pursuit of a Hellebuyck deal, with Buffalo Sabres emerging as a top suitor. Reports indicate the sides nearly finalized a trade during the draft, but Winnipeg demanded more than Buffalo’s initial offer of the No. 4 overall pick, goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, and a roster player—rumored to be former first-rounder Jack Quinn.

Why it matters for Buffalo Sabres

If Hellebuyck lands in Buffalo, Luukkonen is almost certain to leave in the swap, leaving the Sabres’ goaltending future in flux. Sabres sit 2nd in Eastern Conference, 50-23 record, on a L1 streak. Devon Levi’s status also becomes uncertain after three seasons of uneven play. The 24-year-old has a 17-17-2 record, 3.29 GAA, and .894 SV% in 39 games (36 starts), failing to seize the starting job.

What comes next?

Hellebuyck’s arrival would force Buffalo to address its crowded crease. Alex Lyon, a 33-year-old veteran (71-48-15 career, 2.93 GAA, .903 SV%), could draw interest as a 1B option elsewhere. Colten Ellis rounds out the trio, leaving the Sabres with tough choices on who stays and who goes.

Where do the Sabres go from here?

The Sabres’ front office must weigh short-term gains against long-term stability. Hellebuyck would bolster their crease, but shipping Luukkonen and Quinn risks weakening their pipeline. Levi’s future hangs in the balance, while Lyon’s trade value could soften if Hellebuyck arrives. The next move will define Buffalo’s goaltending hierarchy—and their playoff push.