Golden Knights already linked to blockbuster trade for superstar goalie

Vegas are just days away from a heartbreaking loss in the Stanley Cup Final, but the rumor mill is already heating up and the Golden Knights could be keeping an eye on one of the biggest names potentially available.

According to insider Elliotte Friedman, Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck is among the star players generating buzz around the league following another disappointing playoff ending for his team.

On his latest episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast, Friedman highlighted Hellebuyck alongside several major names who could become part of the NHL’s summer trade conversation, and the possibility of Vegas going after him was put forward.

The three-time Vezina Trophy winner remains one of the most respected goaltenders in hockey, but questions have emerged after Winnipeg’s collapse and a difficult 2025-26 season.

Hellebuyck posted career lows with a 2.86 goals-against average and a .895 save percentage, and the Jets once again failed to make a deep postseason run. Despite those struggles, acquiring Hellebuyck would represent one of the biggest moves any team could make this summer.

The veteran signed through the 2030-31 season with an $8.5 million annual cap hit and holds a full no-movement clause, meaning he controls where he could potentially go.

The Florida Panthers reportedly explored the possibility of acquiring him last month as Sergei Bobrovsky’s future approaches a major decision point, while Vegas and other contenders have also been linked. Hellebuyck has also been linked to Detroit Red Wings and Buffalo Sabres.

For the Golden Knights, adding an established superstar goaltender would be another aggressive move from an organization that has never been afraid to make blockbuster changes.

However, Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff has shown no indication that he is rushing into a deal, and there is currently no trade imminent.

But with the NHL Draft and free agency approaching, Hellebuyck’s name is one that could dominate conversations all summer. And if Vegas decides to make another major splash, the three-time Vezina winner would certainly fit the profile.