Hellebuyck says doing ‘what’s best for my family’ led to trade request from Jets

Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck explained on Tuesday that online death threats and family concerns prompted his trade demand away from the Winnipeg Jets. Speaking prior to the New Jersey Devils' matchup against his former club, Hellebuyck said certain incidents crossed the line and made him prioritize his family's safety. The hostility reportedly intensified after he won an Olympic gold medal with the United States in Milan, which was followed by an appearance at the White House.

Hellebuyck was traded to the Devils on October 23 for four players and two draft picks following a training camp holdout that cost him nearly $1 million. Devils general manager Sunny Mehta opted to start Jake Allen instead of Hellebuyck on Tuesday, citing analytics. Meanwhile, Jets head coach Scott Arniel recently stated that Hellebuyck had given up on the team.