Sportsnet analyst Elliotte Friedman suggests the Winnipeg Jets organization has no interest in reintegrating starting goaltender Connor Hellebuyck this season, indicating a potential long-term shift in the team’s goalkeeping plans. The comment follows a similar situation involving Detroit’s Dylan Larkin, who faced backlash after losing his team captaincy amid personal or performance-related challenges. Friedman’s remarks raise questions about Hellebuyck’s future role, whether as a starter or backup, and how the Jets may proceed with their goaltending depth. The comparison to Larkin’s recent setback adds context to the broader trend of high-profile player struggles and team responses.

On today’s episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman said that he does not think “anybody involved” from the Winnipeg Jets want to see Connor Hellebuyck come back and suit up at any point this year.  A player dealing with a similar situation, Detroit’s Dylan Larkin had his “C” stripped and was booed […]