Buffalo Sabres Must Pursue Connor Hellebuyck Trade Despite Risks

The Buffalo Sabres are in a prime position to make a bold move this offseason, and acquiring Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck should be at the top of their list. Despite his struggles in 2025-26, Hellebuyck remains one of the NHL’s elite netminders, and Buffalo’s strong defensive play could help him return to form. The Sabres finished the 2025-26 season with a 50-23 record, second in the Eastern Conference, proving they’re a contender with the right pieces in place.

Why Hellebuyck is worth the risk

Hellebuyck’s .895 save percentage last season was a career low, but his track record speaks for itself. A three-time Vezina Trophy winner and former Hart Trophy winner, he’s been a workhorse, playing at least 56 games in nine of the last 10 seasons. At 33, he’s still in his prime, and his $8.5 million cap hit over the next five seasons is a steal for a goalie of his caliber. The Sabres’ defense, which helped them rank third in team save percentage last season, could give Hellebuyck the support he needs to bounce back.

What Buffalo’s current goalie situation looks like

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, Alex Lyon, and Colten Ellis all posted save percentages above .903 last season, giving Buffalo a reliable trio in net. Luukkonen, in particular, is a solid option at just 27 years old and on a team-friendly $4.75 million contract. However, Hellebuyck’s experience and dominance in high-pressure games could elevate the Sabres to championship contenders. If a trade falls through, Buffalo still has a strong foundation in net.

The challenge of making a deal

The biggest hurdle is finding a trade package that satisfies Winnipeg Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff. Reports suggest Buffalo’s initial offer was rejected, and Cheveldayoff will demand significant value in return. If the Sabres can include Luukkonen in the deal—assuming he’s not on Winnipeg’s no-trade list—the Jets could still have a solid tandem with Luukkonen and new addition Stuart Skinner. For Buffalo, landing Hellebuyck would instantly make them Eastern Conference favorites alongside Carolina and Tampa Bay.

What’s next for the Sabres?

With training camp just weeks away, time is running out for Buffalo to make a move. If Hellebuyck has already signaled his willingness to join the Sabres, the team should do everything in its power to finalize a deal. A Hellebuyck-led Sabres squad could be the missing piece in their quest for a Stanley Cup run. For now, Buffalo’s front office must stay aggressive and creative in negotiations to bring one of the NHL’s best goalies to KeyBank Center.