Hellebuyck trade request keeps destination search in focus

Makar's new deal carries a $20.4 million annual value.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Aug 311 min read

What happened: Cale Makar's $163.2 million, eight-year extension is the largest total contract in NHL history. Connor Hellebuyck remains available after making his trade request public.

Why it matters: Hellebuyck's contract pays $8.5 million annually through 2030-31, giving any acquiring club long-term cost certainty. His no-movement clause is set to become a 21-team no-trade list next offseason.

By the numbers: Makar's contract averages $20.4 million per season over eight years. Hellebuyck is signed for five more seasons at an $8.5 million annual cap hit.

What to watch: Training camp could sharpen the market for Hellebuyck. His waiver decision and Winnipeg's asking price remain central to any deal.

Sources

The Hockey Writers 2026-08-31T10:17:39.596448+00:00

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