The ongoing chatter surrounding a potential Connor Hellebuyck trade is something that Colorado Avalanche should be happy about. While the best thing that could happen is for Hellebuyck to land in Colorado, the fact is that seeing him leave the Central Division is good enough.
That situation could happen as there is a “95 per cent” chance that Hellebuyck could be on the move this summer. And it seems that the prime trade destination is Buffalo. If the Sabres can pull that off, well, good for them.
For the Avalanche fans, this should be good news. Getting Hellebuyck out of the division could help make life just a bit easier. Of course, the Winnipeg Jets could still be a very good team next season.
But removing the prospect of facing Hellebuyck during the regular season and potentially the playoffs is certainly an encouraging prospect. The Central Division already has high-end goalies. That’s why having one fewer to worry about in what figures to be a challenging season in 2026-27.
Avalanche fans shouldn’t discount Avalanche’s chances of pulling off blockbuster
In an earlier piece, we talked about the rumor regarding Colorado looking into trading for Hellebuyck.
That rumor was by no means a declaration that a deal was imminent. But it did reveal that the Avalanche were seeing if there was a chance for another upgrade in the crease.
That rumor should not mean that the Avs are unhappy with the Lumber Yard. It’s just one of those things that every GM has to do. If there’s a chance to land an elite player like Hellebuyck, it would behoove them to look into it.
Perhaps things never got past a phone call, an asking price dropped, and Sakic shook his head at the price.
But that doesn’t mean that Sakic and the Avs are done looking at the situation. The longer that Hellebuyck remains untraded, the chances of something surprising happening increase significantly.
Again, it seems the frontrunners are the Buffalo Sabres. But what if Hellebuyck’s camp feels that Colorado is a better option for him? That situation would sort of back the Jets into a corner, kind of how Artemi Panarin twisted the New York Rangers' arm last season.
This statement is merely speculation. But knowing Joe Sakic, it wouldn’t be surprising to hear he’s got his fingers in multiple pies. This Avalanche core is just too good to let languish. The organization is pushing for another Stanley Cup.
And if Hellebuyck can help the team get there, there’s no question it’s something the organization will be looking to see if it’s feasible.
Add us as a preferred source on Google