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NHL·TRANSACTION·September 20, 2026 05:51 PM ET

Luukkonen's no-trade list stalls Connor Hellebuyck deal

Buffalo is a longshot as Winnipeg wants a goalie in return.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Sep 201 min read
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What happened: Connor Hellebuyck remains suspended after failing to report to training camp amid his ongoing trade request. The Buffalo Sabres emerged as a candidate to acquire the netminder, but talks stumbled over draft pick compensation. The primary obstacle is Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who placed Winnipeg on his five-team no-trade list, per Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.

Why it matters: Winnipeg requires a goaltender in return, complicating a potential transaction with Buffalo. Hellebuyck carries five years remaining at $8.5 million per season. The Carolina Hurricanes and Utah Mammoth remain in the mix for the Olympic gold medalist, according to Friedman and TSN's Pierre LeBrun.

What to watch: Watch for how the market develops as the preseason progresses without the veteran netminder.

Sources

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NHLAnalysisBuffalo SabresCarolina HurricanesUtah MammothConnor HellebuyckUkko-Pekka Luukkonen
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