The New Jersey Devils sit Connor Hellebuyck against Winnipeg Jets in a decision that changes Tuesday’s matchup. Hellebuyck will not start when New Jersey visits Winnipeg on November 10. Jake Allen will replace him. General manager Sunny Mehta announced the decision after the Devils beat Toronto 4-0 on Sunday. Hellebuyck made 23 saves for his first New Jersey shutout. The decision came despite Hellebuyck’s wish to play against his former club. He spent 11 seasons with Winnipeg before the Jets traded him to New Jersey on October 23. Tuesday’s game would have marked his first return to Canada Life Centre.
Hellebuyck expressed disappointment but accepted the decision. He wanted to face the Winnipeg crowd. New Jersey based its choice mainly on workload management. Head coach Sheldon Keefe said Hellebuyck had played three games in six nights. Starting against Winnipeg would mean four appearances in eight nights. Hellebuyck joined the Devils without training camp or preseason games. Coaches believe he needs more time to build conditioning.
The Devils also have two games against Washington later this week. They want Hellebuyck available for both. Mehta said the organization debated the decision. He added that playing Hellebuyck could reduce the team’s expected chance of winning. Allen will start against the Jets. Captain Nico Hischier expressed confidence in him. Hellebuyck’s return remains a major storyline. He requested a trade during the offseason and missed Winnipeg’s training camp. The Jets suspended him before completing the deal.
Hellebuyck spent 11 seasons with Winnipeg. He won the Vezina Trophy three times and claimed the Hart Trophy once. The New Jersey Devils sit Connor Hellebuyck against Winnipeg Jets, but Hellebuyck plans to speak with reporters. The team plans a media availability after Tuesday’s morning skate. Hellebuyck said he would explain his trade request. His comments could provide more insight into his departure. New Jersey now aims to manage its goaltending workload and extend its winning run. Allen will lead the team against Hellebuyck’s former club.
Hellebuyck has made an immediate impact in New Jersey. He is 5-0-0 with a 1.96 goals-against average and .913 save percentage. Sunday’s shutout strengthened his early record. Keefe said the workload concern would apply regardless of the opponent. The expected reaction from Winnipeg fans was another factor, but not the only reason. Coaches are considering the full schedule, not just one emotional game and recovery.
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