The NY Islanders path to the postseason just got much harder after the NJ Devils acquired Connor Hellebuyck

Today began with a blockbuster trade in the NHL, as the Winnipeg Jets honored Connor Hellebuyck’s trade request, sending him to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for Dawson Mercer, Nico Daws, Nick Bjugstad, Alexander Command (12th overall pick in 2026), a 2029 second-round pick, and a 2027 seventh-round pick.

Rumors circulated that the NY Islanders could be involved as a third team to help facilitate the trade, but the two sides ultimately got it done without any outside assistance.

With Hellebuyck heading to New Jersey, the three tri-state teams have arguably the three best goaltenders in the league, with Hellebuyck, Ilya Sorokin, and Igor Shesterkin.

The trade will have residual effects on the Islanders, as the Devils gave up just one everyday player off their current roster in Mercer, while adding a three-time Vezina Trophy winner and a Hart Trophy winner.

Through ten games this season, the Devils sit in the middle of the standings in terms of goals allowed per game at 3.10. Hellebuyck, with Jake Allen serving as the backup, should help improve on that number, though it may take some time for Hellebuyck to return to form after missing all of training camp and the start of the season. 

In a division that saw the Washington Capitals bulk up over the summer and the Rangers making multiple moves, the Devils now have their number one goalie, making the Metro Division that much harder to get out of. 

The Islanders host the Devils on Nov. 7, in what could be Hellebuyck’s first appearance at UBS Arena in a Devils sweater.

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