WINNIPEG, Manitoba — When it comes to road trips, Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck frequently has a pressing question for Head Coach Scott Arniel: which days are off and whether he should pack his fishing gear. “He’s incredibly focused on his hobbies,” Arniel remarks with a grin. “But once he’s at the rink, he’s all about preventing goals.”
In the ongoing 2024-25 season, teams certainly find it tough to get the puck past Hellebuyck. With less than two weeks left in the regular season, the two-time winner of the Vezina Trophy is a formidable contender for another round of acclaim as the NHL’s premier goaltender and is a strong candidate for the league MVP title.
Hellebuyck’s stats reflect his prowess on the ice. Accolades for being part of a leading team in the standings are appreciated, but his primary focus remains on hoisting the Stanley Cup. “It’s the only goal that remains,” he expressed after a recent Jets practice. “That’s the sentiment across the locker room.”
With a remarkable 43-12-3 record, alongside a .924 save percentage, a goals-against average of 2.03, and seven shutouts leading into the upcoming Monday game against St. Louis, Hellebuyck is a standout in the league. Previously winning the Vezina in 2019-20 and again last season, he continues to elevate his game, cementing his candidacy for the Hart Trophy alongside notable players like Edmonton’s Leon Draisaitl and Nathan MacKinnon from Colorado.
“Just when we think he’s reached his peak, Connor shows he can do even more,” states defenseman Josh Morrissey. “He’s a stabilizing force for us.” Jets captain Adam Lowry notes that despite the substantial contract extension signed last October, ensuring his presence in Winnipeg until the 2030-31 season, Hellebuyck hasn’t received the recognition he rightfully deserves.
“He anticipates so well,” says Lowry. “His positional awareness means he’s in the right spot before the puck even reaches him. Other goalies often make saves out of desperation.” Morrissey concurs, “He makes it look effortless, but it’s anything but.”
The Jets have also improved their defensive strategy, reducing the workload on their star goaltender. Under the new defensive structure initiated by former Head Coach Rick Bowness in 2022-23, the shots Hellebuyck faced dropped significantly. From 2,155 shots in the 2021-22 season to 1,964 the following year, and even further down to 1,798 in 2023-24. This season, only 1,561 shots have been directed at him in 59 games under Arniel’s guidance.
“We used to rely too much on Helly because of his brilliance,” admits Lowry. “Even the world’s best goalie gets beaten at times. Now, there’s commitment to team defense, and it ups the whole team’s game.”
Hellebuyck might just be the first goaltender to win the Hart Trophy as the NHL MVP since Carey Price in 2014-15. Lowry sees similarities between their styles. “They make the game appear so seamless,” he notes. “It’s their internal drive to constantly refine their technique.”
Arniel praises Hellebuyck’s competitive spirit, focusing especially on his meticulous daily routines. Reflecting on recent performances, Hellebuyck, who led the United States at the Four Nations Face-Off, acknowledges a newfound confidence among the Jets, especially after an early playoff exit last spring.
“Every matchup builds our prowess,” Hellebuyck states. “We’re collectively playing with unwavering confidence, not just in spurts.”
Looking forward, Winnipeg braces for a possible playoff showdown against Minnesota or St. Louis. Should they conquer that challenge, they could meet the formidable Dallas or Colorado in the Central Division. For Hellebuyck, personal accolades pale in comparison to the ultimate ambition.
“The Stanley Cup is our only mission,” he emphasizes. “We’re ready to seize the moment.”