What happened: Connor Hellebuyck remains away from Winnipeg with his trade request unresolved early in the 2026-27 season. Early results and injuries in other nets are starting to define which clubs could press for a deal.

Why it matters: Winnipeg is skating without its starting goaltender while the same trade request addressed by Mark Scheifele remains unresolved. A slow start or injury in another crease could quickly turn a waiting market into bidding leverage for the Jets.

What to watch: The next test is whether injuries or slow starts in net force a suitor to meet Winnipeg's ask in the coming weeks.