Connor Hellebuyck opened up on the circumstances surrounding his departure from Winnipeg in a letter to Jets fans Wednesday.
The 33-year-old goaltender had an unceremonious exit from the team that drafted him in 2012 after he revealed a trade request and was suspended when he refused to report to Jets training camp before finally being traded to the Devils in October.
“There were several considerations that went into my decision, including some very challenging circumstances involving my family,” Hellebuyck wrote. “After a lot of thought and discussion, we ultimately felt that making a change was the best thing for our family. We’ve chosen to keep those personal circumstances private, and I hope people can respect that.”
Hellebuyck’s trade request was unpopular with Jets fans, who viewed the move as Hellebuyck giving up on the team.
Winnipeg finished seventh in the Central Division last season with 82 points after winning the President’s Trophy for the best regular-season record just a year prior.
However the fans might feel, Hellebuyck expressed gratitude for their support during his 11 seasons in Manitoba, a place he said he loved.
“One of the things I’ve always loved about Manitoba is the connection people have to the outdoors,” Hellebuyck shared. “With so many beautiful lakes and places to enjoy nature, it’s a special part of life there. Some of my favorite memories away from the rink will always be the time I spent on the water fishing.
“To the great Jets fans who supported me and my family, thank you. I’ll never forget the pride I felt representing Winnipeg, and I wish the Jets and the entire community nothing but the best.”
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