Connor Hellebuyck

Hellebuyck was born on May 19, 1993, in Commerce Township, Michigan,{{cite web |title=Connor Hellebuyck |url=https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/142796/connor-hellebuyck |publisher=Elite Prospects |access-date=September 12, 2023}} to parents Chuck and Erin. His father is a technical training engineer while his mother is an artist and children's books author.{{cite web |last1=Owen |first1=Judy |title=Attention to detail runs in the family of Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/attention-detail-winnipeg-jets-connor-hellebuyck-1.4432546 |publisher=Canadian Broadcasting Corporation |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=December 4, 2017}} Hellebuyck is the middle of three siblings; his older brother Chris also played hockey before retiring in 2016–17.{{cite web |title=Chris Hellebuyck |url=https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/153902/chris-hellebuyck |publisher=Elite Prospects |access-date=October 26, 2024}}

After completing his high school career at Walled Lake Northern High School in Commerce Township, Michigan, Hellebuyck played one year of junior hockey as a member of the Odessa Jackalopes, a franchise that had been a minor league affiliate of the New York Islanders but had recently moved to junior hockey as part of the North American Hockey League (NAHL). Hellebuyck went from being virtually unknown to a top prospect while playing in Odessa and was drafted by the Winnipeg Jets following his season in Odessa.

Hellebuyck earned a scholarship to play for the UMass Lowell River Hawks in the NCAA Men's Division I Hockey East Conference, where in two seasons he played 54 games and compiled a 38–12–2 record with a .946 save percentage, 1.60 goals against average and 12 shutouts. He won the Hockey East Championship and made a Frozen Four appearance in his freshman year. Lowell would repeat as Hockey East Champions the following year and Hellebuyck became the only player in Hockey East history to be named tournament MVP twice. Following his second year, Hellebuyck's outstanding play was rewarded with a selection to the 2013–14 All-Hockey East First Team.{{cite web |title=Connor Hellebuyck named First-Team Hockey East All-Star |url=https://goriverhawks.com/news/2014/3/20/MICE_0320141409.aspx?path=mhockey |publisher=River Hawks |access-date=October 27, 2024 |location=Boston |language=English |date=March 20, 2014}}

For the 2013–14 season, Hellebuyck was awarded the inaugural Mike Richter Award as the top goaltender in college hockey.{{cite web |last1=Cox |first1=Zack |title=UMass Lowell’s Connor Hellebuyck Wins Mike Richter Award As Top Goalie |url=https://nesn.com/2014/04/umass-lowells-connor-hellebuyck-wins-mike-richter-award-as-top-goalie/ |publisher=NESN |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=April 11, 2014}} Hellebuyck departed UMass Lowell as the school's shutout leader with 12 shutouts in 54 games, surpassing former National Hockey League and former UMass Lowell goaltender Carter Hutton. He also owns single-season records for best save percentage (.952) and GAA (1.37), both in 2012–13.{{cite web |last1=Soderberg |first1=Justin |title=Connor Hellebuyck jets from UMass Lowell early |url=http://millcitysports.com/articles/2463-connor-hellebuyck-jets-umass-lowell-early |website=millcitysports.com |access-date=October 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140716145435/http://millcitysports.com/articles/2463-connor-hellebuyck-jets-umass-lowell-early |archive-date=July 16, 2014 |date=April 5, 2014}}

Hellebuyck chose to forgo his final two years of college eligibility by signing a three-year, entry-level contract with the Winnipeg Jets on April 5, 2014. He was immediately assigned to the St. John's IceCaps, the Jets' American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, for the remainder of the season but did not play a game.{{cite web |last1=McMahon |first1=Michael M. |title=Jets agree to terms with 2012 third-round pick Connor Hellebuyck |url=https://www.si.com/nhl/2014/04/06/jets-sign-goalie-connor-hellebuyck |publisher=Sports Illustrated |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=April 5, 2014}} When speaking of his decision, Hellebuyck said: "After two great years, I had to look at my career as a whole and think about my next step. After talking to both teams, it was a very difficult decision but I thought my play was ready for the next level."{{cite web |last1=Titus |first1=Mark |title=Connor Hellebuyck: Quickly Rising Through Hockey’s Ranks from NAHL to Pro |url=https://phpa.com/news/362 |publisher=Professional Hockey Players' Association |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=April 9, 2015}} After being cut from the Winnipeg Jets' training camp, Hellebuyck spent the entirety of the 2014–15 season with the IceCaps.{{cite web |last1=Ballard |first1=Chris |title=Hellebuyck primed for big things |url=https://theahl.com/news/hellebuyck-primed-for-big-things |publisher=American Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=October 21, 2014}} Hellebuyck started the season sharing the net with Peter Budaj but quickly became the IceCaps starter by mid-November.{{cite news |last1=McCarthy |first1=Brendan |title=Hellebuyck to start as IceCaps host Marlies |url=https://www.pressreader.com/canada/the-telegram-st-johns/20141118/281754152621792 |access-date=October 26, 2024 |publisher=The Telegram |date=November 18, 2014}} Through his first six starts, Hellebuyck earned his first professional shutout, had a .955 save percentage, and tied for eighth in the league in goals against average (GAA).{{cite web |last1=Nakhwal |first1=CK |title=Game Preview: Moose vs. Wolves – Nov. 12 |url=https://moosehockey.com/news/game-preview-moose-vs-wolves-nov-12/ |publisher=Manitoba Moose |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=November 12, 2015}} He was recognized as the CCM/AHL Player of the Week for the period ending on November 23. During the week, Hellebuyck won all four of his starts while recording two shutouts.{{cite web |title=Hellebuyck named Player of the Week |url=https://theahl.com/news/hellebuyck-named-player-of-the-week |publisher=American Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=November 24, 2014}} Although the IceCaps continued to struggle, with an Eastern Conference-worst goals against record,{{cite news |last1=Norman |first1=Caroline |title=Entering the gates of Hell-ebuyck |url=https://themanitoban.com/2015/01/entering-gates-hell-ebuyck/22480/ |access-date=September 26, 2024 |publisher=The Manitoban |date=January 28, 2015}} Hellebuyck tied for fourth among all goalies in wins, and third among league rookies in save percentage. He was subsequently selected for the 2015 AHL All-Star Game.{{cite web |last1=Janke |first1=Kinsey |title=Hellebuyck continues to shine for St. John’s |url=https://theahl.com/news/hellebuyck-continues-to-shine-for-st-johns |publisher=American Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=January 16, 2015}} When asked about Hellebuyck's start, IceCaps’ head coach Keith McCambridge said: "I'm not one to use the word ‘surprise’ haphazardly, but yeah, I have been surprised."{{cite news |last1=McCarthy |first1=Brendan |title=Hellebuyck a welcome workhorse for IceCaps |url=https://www.pressreader.com/canada/the-telegram-st-johns/20150206/281801397383161 |access-date=October 26, 2024 |publisher=The Telegram |date=February 6, 2015}} Hellebuyck recorded his fourth shutout of the season on February 7, 2015, against the Portland Pirates,{{cite web |title=Hellebuyck stops 35 shots IceCaps blank Pirates |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/ahl/hellebuyck-stops-35-shots-icecaps-blank-pirates/ |publisher=Sportsnet |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=February 7, 2015}} and his fifth the following night against the Hartford Wolf Pack.{{cite web |title=Wolf Pack Held Scoreless in St. John's |url=https://www.hartfordwolfpack.com/news/detail/wolf-pack-73 |publisher=Hartford Wolf Pack |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=February 10, 2015}} On April 10, Hellebuyck was called up by the Jets to dress as the backup goaltender for one game.{{cite news |last1=Campbell |first1=Tim |title=Jets call up goalie Hellebuyck from St. John’s |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2015/04/10/jets-call-up-goalie-hellebuyck-from-st-johns?device=mobile |access-date=October 26, 2024 |publisher=Winnipeg Free Press |date=April 10, 2015}} Hellebuyck finished his rookie season with a 28–22–5 record, 2.58 GAA, and 0.921 save percentage.

File:JK2 1876 22572012638 o (50573502292).jpg

Following the 2014–15 season, the IceCaps moved to Winnipeg for the 2015–16 season and were renamed to the Manitoba Moose. After appearing in two pre-season games with the Winnipeg Jets, Hellebuyck was reassigned to the Moose.{{cite web |last1=Nakhwal |first1=CK |title=Connor Hellebuyck assigned to Moose |url=https://moosehockey.com/news/connor-hellebuyck-assigned-to-moose/ |publisher=Manitoba Moose |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=September 30, 2015}} He began the season in the starting role with Eric Comrie as his backup. Hellebuyck started in eight of the team's first eleven games while posting a 2.12 average and a .939 save percentage.{{cite web |last1=Nakhwal |first1=CK |title=Hellebuyck’s shutout mission |url=https://moosehockey.com/blog/hellebuycks-shutout-mission/ |publisher=Manitoba Moose |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=November 10, 2015}} On November 22, 2015, the Jets called up Hellebuyck after Ondřej Pavelec was injured during a game against the Arizona Coyotes.{{cite news |last1=Wiecek |first1=Paul |title=Jets call up Hellebuyck after Pavelec injured by Doan hit |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2015/11/22/jets-call-up-hellebuyck-after-pavelec-injured-by-doan-hit |access-date=October 26, 2024 |publisher=Winnipeg Free Press |date=November 22, 2025}} He made his NHL debut on November 27, against the Minnesota Wild, and stopped 15 shots on net in the 3–1 win.{{cite web |title=Hellebuyck wins in NHL debut; Jets top Wild |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/hellebuyck-wins-in-nhl-debut-jets-top-wild/ |publisher=Sportsnet |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=November 27, 2015}} Hellebuyck also won his second NHL game on December 2, against the Toronto Maple Leafs with 32 saves in the 6-1 win.{{cite news |title=Toronto Maple Leafs fall to Jets as Winnipeg's rookie goalie Connor Hellebuyck outshines Garret Sparks |url=https://nationalpost.com/sports/hockey/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs-fall-to-jets-as-winnipegs-rookie-goalie-connor-hellebuyck-outshines-garret-sparks |access-date=October 26, 2024 |publisher=National Post |date=December 3, 2015}} Later that month, on December 27, Hellebuyck recorded his first NHL shutout in a 1–0 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins. This was the Jets' first shutout of the season and ended their two-game losing streak.{{cite web |title=Hellebuyck earns 1st career shutout, Jets blank Penguins |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/connor-hellebuyck-earns-first-career-shutout-jets-blank-penguins/ |publisher=Sportsnet |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=December 27, 2015}} Despite remaining in the NHL, Hellebuyck was selected to represent the Manitoba Moose at the 2016 AHL All-Star Game.{{cite web |last1=Nakhwal |first1=CK |title=Hellebuyck selected to 2016 Toyota AHL All-Star Classic roster |url=https://moosehockey.com/news/hellebuyck-selected-2016-toyota-ahl-star-classic-roster/ |publisher=Manitoba Moose |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=January 7, 2016}} Hellebuyck returned to the AHL in January once Pavelec recovered from his injury. He finished his first stint in the NHL with a 13–11–0 record, 2.34 goals-against, and a .918 save percentage.{{cite web |last1=Nakhwal |first1=CK |title=Hellebuyck looks back and forward |url=https://moosehockey.com/blog/hellebuyck-looks-back-forward/ |publisher=Manitoba Moose |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=April 12, 2016}}

Hellebuyck attended the Winnipeg Jets training camp ahead of the 2016–17 season and made the team's opening night roster alongside Michael Hutchinson.{{cite web |title=Ondrej Pavelec placed on waivers by Jets as rosters trimmed |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/ondrej-pavelec-placed-waivers-jets-rosters-trimmed/ |publisher=Sportsnet |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=October 10, 2016}}{{cite web |last1=Dittrick |first1=Ryan |title=Hellebuyck, Hutchinson to lead Jets in goal |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/hellebuyck-hutchinson-to-lead-jets-in-goal-282538878 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=October 10, 2016}} Prior to opening night, he was granted permission from Dan Snyder's family to wear the jersey #37 in his honour. The number had not been worn by anyone in the Thrashers/Jets franchise since his death in 2003.{{cite web |last1=Hobson |first1=Rob |title=Winnipeg Jets’ Connor Hellebuyck has new mask paying tribute to Dan Snyder |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/2986479/connor-hellebuycks-new-mask-a-tribute-to-dan-snyder/ |publisher=Global News |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=October 5, 2016}} Hellebuyck and Hutchinson shared the crease throughout the season, where both struggled to maintain consistency. By January, Hellebuyck had a 13-12-1 record through 26 games as the Jets were three points out of a playoff spot.{{cite news |last1=Hamilton |first1=Jeff |title=Struggles between the pipes |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2017/01/03/struggles-between-the-pipes |access-date=October 26, 2024 |publisher=Winnipeg Free Press |date=January 3, 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20241026202906/https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2017/01/03/struggles-between-the-pipes |archive-date=October 26, 2024}} Hellebuyck finished his rookie season with a 26–19–4 record through 56 games and a 2.89 goals-against average, .907 save percentage, and four shutouts. He also played the most games of any goaltender age 23 and younger in the NHL. On July 24, 2017, the Jets re-signed Hellebuyck to a one-year contract worth $2.25 million.{{cite web |title=Jets sign Connor Hellebuyck |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-sign-connor-hellebuyck-290481076 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=July 24, 2017}}

After making the opening night roster after the Jets' 2017–18 development camp, Hellebuyck played the majority of the season alongside Steve Mason.{{cite web |last1=Fox |first1=Luke |title=Steve Mason’s new mask a portrait of his hardest season |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/steve-masons-new-mask-portrait-hardest-season/ |publisher=Sportsnet |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=May 4, 2018}} After Mason had a poor few games, Hellebuyck became the de facto starter for the Jets for the remainder of the season.{{cite news |last1=Wyman |first1=Ted |title=Mason embracing role as Hellebuyck’s backup after injury-riddled season |url=https://winnipegsun.com/sports/hockey/nhl/winnipeg-jets/mason-embracing-role-as-hellebuycks-backup-after-injury-riddled-season |access-date=October 26, 2024 |publisher=Winnipeg Free Press |date=April 29, 2018}} Hellebuyck excelled in his role as starter, recording 23 wins through 35 games including three shut outs, a .923 save percentage, and 2.36 GAA.{{cite web |last1=Thomas |first1=Jamie |title=Wheeler, Hellebuyck honoured to be named All Stars |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/wheeler-hellebuyck-honoured-to-be-named-all-stars-294849224 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=January 10, 2018}} Hellebuyck was also recognized as an NHL Star of the Week twice. The first time came on December 31 after he recorded a perfect 3-0-0 record, with a 1.67 goals-against average, .952 save percentage and one shutout over three games.{{cite web |title=Hellebuyck leads 3 Stars of the Week |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/connor-hellebuyck-william-karlsson-david-backes-named-nhl-3-stars-294551630 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=January 1, 2018}} His second Star of the Week honor came on January 22 after he stopped 59 of 60 shots against over two games.{{cite web |title=MacKinnon leads 3 Stars of the Week |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/nathan-mackinnon-connor-hellebuyck-brad-marchand-named-nhl-3-stars-295170976 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=January 22, 2018}} He was subsequently named to the 2017 NHL All-Star Game for the first time alongside teammate Blake Wheeler. On March 8, Hellebuyck set a franchise record for most wins in a season by a goaltender after making 41 saves to clinch his 35th win.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Hellebuyck makes 41 saves, Laine extends point streak in win over Devils |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/hellebuyck-makes-41-saves-laine-extends-point-streak-in-win-over-devil-296765780 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=March 8, 2018}} Hellebuyck finished the season with a 44–11–9 record in 67 games, setting the record for the most single-season wins by an American goaltender in the NHL, previously held by Tom Barrasso of the Pittsburgh Penguins. He also tied with Wayne Stephenson for the record of most home wins by a goaltender in a single season with 30.{{cite web |title=Hellebuyck sets American goalie record in Jets win over Blackhawks |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/hellebuyck-sets-american-goalie-record-jets-win-blackhawks/ |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=April 7, 2018}} Hellebuyck also set a franchise record with nine shutouts, a .924 save percentage,{{cite web |title=Jets sign Connor Hellebuyck to six-year contract |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-sign-connor-hellebuyck-to-six-year-contract-299470580 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=July 12, 2018}} and nine straight wins to end the regular season.{{cite web |title=Vezina Trophy finalists unveiled |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/connor-hellebuyck-pekka-rinne-andrei-vasilevskiy-named-vezina-trophy-f-298062362 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=April 17, 2018}} As a result of his successful play, Hellebuyck was named a Vezina Trophy runner-up as the league's top goaltender behind Pekka Rinne.{{cite web |title=Nashville’s Pekka Rinne wins Vezina Trophy as NHL’s best goaltender |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/nashvilles-pekka-rinne-wins-vezina-trophy-nhls-best-goaltender/ |publisher=Sportsnet |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=June 20, 2018}}

Hellebuyck and the Jets qualified for the 2018 Stanley Cup playoffs for the first time since 2015, after finishing second overall in the Central Division.{{cite web |last1=Thomas |first1=Jamie |title=Jets hit the ice in preparation for series opener against Wild |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-hit-the-ice-in-preparation-for-series-opener-against-wild-297843308 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=April 9, 2018}} Hellebuyck made his playoff debut in the Jets' round one series against the Minnesota Wild.{{cite web |last1=Owen |first1=Judy |title=Jets stifle Wild as Connor Hellebuyck falls just short of shutout |url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/nhl/minnesota-wild-winnipeg-jets-game-2-1.4619413 |publisher=Canadian Hockey League |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=April 13, 2018}} Over five games against the Wild, Hellebuyck recorded two shutouts to lead the Jets to their first playoff series win in franchise history.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Jets eliminate Wild with dominant effort in Game 5 |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-eliminate-wild-with-dominant-effort-in-game-5-298163636 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=April 20, 2018}} Hellebuyck then set another franchise record by making 47 saves in Game 1 of the second round against the Nashville Predators. This was the most saves in a playoff game in Jets/ Thrashers' franchise history.{{cite web |last1=Vocaturo |first1=Nadia |title=Playoff Performer of the Night Connor Hellebuyck |url=https://www.nhlpa.com/news/1-15083/playoff-performer-of-the-night-connor-hellebuyck |publisher=NHLPA |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=April 28, 2018}} While the series was pushed to seven games, Hellebuyck made 36 saves in the 5–1 win to lead the Jets to the Western Conference final.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Jets eliminate Predators with Game 7 win in Nashville |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-eliminate-predators-with-game-7-win-in-nashville-298561824 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 26, 2024 |date=May 10, 2018}} Once the Jets were eliminated from the playoffs, Hellebuyck signed a six-year, $37 million contract extension.

In the first year of his new contract, Hellebuyck failed to match the success of his previous season. Through the first 23 games of the 2018–19 season, Hellebuyck maintained a 9-7-1 record, with a 2.98 GAA, and a .907 save percentage. As such, the Jets began relying more on backup Laurent Brossoit, who had a 4–1–1 record.{{cite news |last1=Wyman |first1=Ted |title=Hellebuyck’s 2016-17-level numbers a big reason for Jets' inconsistency |url=https://winnipegsun.com/sports/hockey/nhl/winnipeg-jets/hellebuycks-2016-17-level-numbers-a-big-reason-for-jets-inconsistency |access-date=October 27, 2024 |publisher=Winnipeg Sun |date=November 28, 2018 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20241026190326/https://winnipegsun.com/sports/hockey/nhl/winnipeg-jets/hellebuycks-2016-17-level-numbers-a-big-reason-for-jets-inconsistency |archive-date=October 26, 2024}} Hellebuyck continued to struggle early in the season until November when he improved his record to 13–8–1.{{cite web |last1=Thomas |first1=Jamie |title=Return to form |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/return-to-form-302769482 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=December 9, 2018}} However, head coach Paul Maurice continued to rely on both Hellebuyck and Brossoit, saying: "We've got a luxury here....We've got two goaltenders that we really feel confident in playing."{{cite web |last1=Thomas |first1=Jamie |title=Patiently observing |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/patiently-observing-303956706 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=January 16, 2019}} On December 31, 2018, Hellebuyck recorded his 100th career win against the Edmonton Oilers.{{cite web |title=Lemieux scores twice, Jets end year with 4-3 win over Oilers |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/recap?gameId=401044930 |publisher=ESPN |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=January 1, 2019}} By the NHL's bye week in late January, Hellebuyck ranked third among goaltenders with 21 wins.{{cite web |last1=Esquivel |first1=Tyler |title=Hellebuyck stands tall heading into bye-week |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/hellebuyck-stands-tall-heading-into-bye-week-304096728 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=January 20, 2019}} Through the month of March, Hellebuyck continued to improve and maintained a 2.62 GAA and a .922 save percentage.{{cite web |last1=Thomas |first1=Jamie |title=Hellebuyck ready to shine in playoffs |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/hellebuyck-ready-to-shine-in-playoffs-306588834 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=April 8, 2019}} He also played in his 200th career NHL game on March 10, 2019, against the Washington Capitals.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=By the Numbers: Connor Hellebuyck |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/by-the-numbers-connor-hellebuyck-307783424 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=June 10, 2019}} After earning his 14th career NHL shutout on March 23, Hellebuyck and the Jets qualified for the 2019 Stanley Cup playoffs.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Jets clinch playoff spot with shutout win over Predators |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-clinch-playoff-spot-with-shutout-win-over-predators-306083164 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=March 23, 2019}} They faced off against the St. Louis Blues in the first round, where they fell in six games.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Jets season ends with Game 6 loss in St. Louis |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-season-ends-with-game-6-loss-in-st-louis-306927984 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=April 20, 2019}} Hellebuyck finished the 2018–19 regular season with 34 wins and 23 losses through 63 games.

Hellebuyck started the 2019–20 season strong, allowing two goals or fewer in five of his first six starts. He recorded his first shutout of the season on October 20, 2019, against the Edmonton Oilers.{{cite web |last1=Thomas |first1=Jamie |title=Hellebuyck records first shutout of the season |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/hellebuyck-records-first-shutout-of-the-season-310320430 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=October 20, 2019}} On November 2, Hellebuyck set a personal career-best with 51 saves in a 3–2 win over the San Jose Sharks. This was also the most shots saved by a goaltender since the Jets moved to Winnipeg in 2011.{{cite web |title=Hellebuyck makes 51 saves, Ehlers scores late as Jets top Sharks |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/hellebuyck-makes-51-saves-ehlers-scores-late-jets-top-sharks/ |publisher=Sportsnet |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=November 2, 2019}} By the end of December, Hellebuyck was tied for third in the league with 17 and led all goaltenders in shutouts. As a result, Hellebuyck was named to his second NHL All-Star Game alongside teammate Mark Scheifele.{{cite web |title=Connor Hellebuyck and Mark Scheifele named to 2020 NHL All-Star Game |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/connor-hellebuyck-and-mark-scheifele-named-to-2020-nhl-all-star-game-313241646 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=December 30, 2019}} On January 14, 2020, Hellebuyck recorded his fourth shutout of the season to end the Jets' six-game losing streak. He also clinched the franchise record for most shutouts with 18, surpassing Ondrej Pavelec.{{cite web |title=Hellebuyck blanks Canucks to set Jets' shutout record |url=https://www.tsn.ca/hellebuyck-sets-jets-record-with-18-career-shutouts-as-winnipeg-blanks-canucks-1.1427573 |publisher=The Sports Network |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=January 14, 2020}} Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the regular season was paused on March 12, 2020.{{cite web |title=National Hockey League Pauses 2019-20 Season |url=https://media.nhl.com/public/news/13911 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=March 12, 2020}} At the time of the pause, Hellebuyck ranked second in the NHL in wins with 31, first in shutouts, and seventh in save percentage among goalies who played at least 20 games.{{cite web |last1=Clipperton |first1=Joshua |title=Connor Hellebuyck on Jets' season: 'We had something special going' |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/jets-hellebuyck-coronavirus-cp-1.5535024 |publisher=Sportsnet |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=April 16, 2020}} His efforts helped the Jets maintain a 37–28–6 record and advance to the 2020 Stanley Cup Qualifiers once the NHL resumed play.{{cite web |last1=Campbell |first1=Tim |title=Jets expect 'formidable task' against Flames in Cup Qualifier |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/jets-expect-formidable-task-against-flames-317315648 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=July 2, 2020}} The Jets faced off against the Calgary Flames in the Qualifiers round but were eliminated in four games.{{cite web |last1=Ritchie |first1=Josh |title=Flames advance to Stanley Cup Playoffs with Game 4 win over Jets |url=https://calgary.citynews.ca/2020/08/06/flames-advance-to-stanley-cup-playoffs-with-game-4-win-over-jets/ |publisher=City News |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=August 6, 2020}} On September 21, before Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals, Hellebuyck was named the winner of the Vezina Trophy, becoming the first goalie in Winnipeg Jets/Atlanta Thrashers history to win the award.{{cite web |last1=Satriano |first1=David |title=Hellebuyck of Jets wins Vezina Trophy as best goalie in NHL |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winnipeg-jets-goalie-connor-hellebuyck-wins-vezina-trophy-319122172 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=September 21, 2020}}

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020–21 season was pushed back until January 13, 2021, for a 56-game regular season. The Jets were also temporarily realigned into the North Division where they would only compete against Canadian teams.{{cite web |last1=Blackburn |first1=Pete |title=NHL announces 56-game 2021 season will start Jan. 13 and realignment with Canadian division |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nhl/news/nhl-announces-56-game-2021-season-will-start-jan-13-and-realignment-with-canadian-division/ |work=CBS Sports |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=December 20, 2020}} On February 4, Hellebuyck won his 153rd NHL game as the Jets beat the Calgary Flames 4–1, breaking the Jets/Thrashers franchise record for wins by a goaltender.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Hellebuyck sets franchise win record in Jets victory over Flames |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/hellebuyck-sets-franchise-win-record-in-jets-victory-over-flames-321112952 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=February 4, 2021}} The Jets experienced a four game winning streak through February which ended on February 29 against the Canucks. At the time, Hellebuyck and the Jets had maintained a winning 13–7–1 record.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Jets win streak ends with shutout loss to Canucks |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-win-streak-ends-with-shutout-loss-to-canucks-321985802 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=March 1, 2021}} Through the first week of April, Hellebuyck won three consecutive games, including one shutout, and led the NHL in shots against, saves, and minutes played. In recognition of his efforts, Hellebuyck was named the NHL's First Star of the Week for the week ending on April 11.{{cite web |title=Hellebuyck and Melanie MacKinnon named NHL's Co-First Stars of the Week |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/hellebuyck-and-melanie-mackinnon-named-nhl-s-co-first-stars-of-the-wee-323562560 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=April 12, 2021}} At the conclusion of the regular season, Hellebuyck ranked in the top five of the league with 23 wins and four shutouts through 44 games.{{cite web |title=Jets announce year-end award winners for 2020-21 regular season |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-announce-year-end-award-winners-for-2020-21-regular-season-324721500 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=May 14, 2021}} Hellebuyck then played all four games of the Jets' sweep of the Edmonton Oilers in the North Division first round.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Jets prepared for both scenarios as second round draws near |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-prepared-for-both-scenarios-as-second-round-draws-near-325102038 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=May 31, 2021}} However, the Jets were then swept in the North Division second round by the Montreal Canadiens.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Jets season comes to an end with overtime loss to Canadiens |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-season-comes-to-an-end-with-overtime-loss-to-canadiens-325243812 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=June 8, 2021}}

File:Winnipeg Jets at Washington Capitals - January 18, 2022 - Connor Hellebuyck (51833872825).jpg in 2022.]]

During the 2022 offseason, Hellebuyck contracted COVID-19 which resulted in fatigue and headaches. Despite missing a spleen, Hellebuyck stated he handled the virus better than predicted.{{cite web |last1=Moore |first1=Kelly |title=Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck is pro choice on getting vaccinated |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/8216753/winnipeg-jets-connor-hellebuyck-covid-vaccine/ |publisher=Global News |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=September 23, 2021}} Although the NHL returned to pre-pandemic play, over 40 games were postponed due to concerns of the virus and the NHL's scheduled Christmas break was started 48 hours earlier.{{cite web |title='A little overkill': Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck not keen on NHL's schedule pause |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/hellebuyck-overkill-nhl-pause-1.6294455 |publisher=Canadian Broadcasting Corporation |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=December 21, 2021}} On April 24, 2022, Hellebuyck played in his 380th game as a Winnipeg Jet and he earned his 200th career win as the Jets beat the Colorado Avalanche 4–1 at home at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg. This also set a new franchise record for most games played and won by a Jets goaltender.{{cite web |last1=Clinton |first1=Mitchell |title=Hellebuyck and Connor set new franchise records in win over Colorado |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/hellebuyck-and-connor-set-new-franchise-records-in-win-over-colorado-333394242 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=April 24, 2022}}

Hellebuyck was voted by fans to play in the 2023 NHL All-Star Game alongside Jets defenceman Josh Morrissey.{{cite web |title=Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck selected by fans for 2023 NHL All-Star Game |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/foaltender-connor-hellebuyck-selected-by-fans-for-2023-nhl-all-star-ga-340180768 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=January 19, 2023}} Hellebuyck finished the 2022–23 season with a 37–25–2 record, 2.49 GAA, and a .920 save percentage. He tied for third in wins among NHL goaltenders and tied with Juuse Saros for most games played. He was named a Vezina Trophy finalist for the third time in his career.{{cite web |last1=Satriano |first1=David |title=Hellebuyck, Sorokin, Ullmark named Vezina Trophy finalists |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/connor-hellebuyck-ilya-sorokin-linus-ullmark-named-vezina-trophy-final-344325398 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=May 11, 2023}}

On October 9, 2023, Hellebuyck along with Mark Scheifele, both signed a seven-year, $59.5 million contract extension with the Jets.{{cite web |title=Scheifele, Hellebuyck each signs 7-year, $59.5 million contract with Jets |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/mark-scheifele-connor-hellebuyck-sign-7-year-deals-with-winnipeg |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 27, 2024 |date=October 9, 2023}} The 2023–24 season proved a great success for the Jets. The team finished fourth in the NHL, while Hellebuyck had a 37–19–4 record, a 2.39 goals-against average, and a .921 save percentage.{{Cite web |title=Jets, Connor Hellebuyck win William M. Jennings Trophy |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/jets-connor-hellebuyck-win-william-m-jennings-trophy/ |website=Sportsnet |date=April 18, 2024 |access-date=April 19, 2024}} The Jets allowed a league-low 199 goals in 82 games, and as a result Hellebuyck received the William M. Jennings Trophy. He was the first Jets goaltender to win the award.{{Cite web |title=Hellebuyck of Jets wins William M. Jennings Trophy |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/connor-hellebuyck-wins-nhl-william-m-jennings-trophy |website=NHL.com |date=April 19, 2024 |access-date=April 19, 2024}} He also won the Vezina Trophy for the second time in his career.{{cite web |last1=Gulitti |first1=Tom |title=Hellebuyck of Jets wins Vezina Trophy as top goalie in NHL |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winnipeg-jets-connor-hellebuyck-wins-vezina-trophy |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=June 27, 2024}} The postseason ended in disappointment, with the Jets losing their first round series against the Colorado Avalanche in five games, with Hellebuyck's goaltending called into question.{{cite web |last1=Wyman |first1=Ted |title=Jets put in historically bad defensive performance in five-game loss to Avalanche |url=https://winnipegsun.com/sports/snapshots-jets-put-in-historically-bad-defensive-performance-in-five-game-loss-to-avalanche |newspaper=The Winnipeg Sun |date=May 1, 2024 |access-date=April 18, 2025 }}

Hellebuyck and the Jets started the 2024–25 season strong, winning eight consecutive games since opening night.{{cite web |last1=Bauming |first1=Darrin |title=Tavares gets hat trick, Maple Leafs end Jets' season-opening winning streak at 8 |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/toronto-maple-leafs-winnipeg-jets-game-recap-october-28 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=October 29, 2024}} During this run, Hellebuyck was named the NHL's Second Star of the Week for the week ending on October 13.{{cite web |title=Hellebuyck named second star of the week |url=https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/hellebuyck-named-second-star-of-the-week |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=October 30, 2024 |date=October 14, 2024}} He later made his 500th career start in an 8-3 win over the San Jose Sharks.{{cite news |last1=Bender |first1=Jim |title=Jets gift Hellebuyck with eight goals of run support on night of his 500th start |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/hockey/jets/2024/10/18/jets-gift-hellebuyck-with-eight-goals-of-run-support-on-night-of-his-500th-start |access-date=October 30, 2024 |publisher=Winnipeg Free Press |date=October 18, 2024 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20241026185749/https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/hockey/jets/2024/10/18/jets-gift-hellebuyck-with-eight-goals-of-run-support-on-night-of-his-500th-start |archive-date=October 26, 2024}} Ultimately, the winning streak ended on October 29, in a 6–4 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Later, in his 538th game, Hellebuyck attained his 300th win with a 5–2 home ice win against the Nashville Predators on January 7, 2025, becoming the third-fastest goaltender to 300 wins, after Andrei Vasilevskiy and Jacques Plante.{{cite web |last=Bauming |first=Darrin |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/nashville-predators-winnipeg-jets-game-recap-january-7 |title=Hellebuyck gets 300th NHL win, Jets defeat Predators to end 3-game skid |website=NHL.com |date=January 7, 2025 |access-date=January 8, 2025}} Hellebuyck finished the regular season with 47 wins and a goals against average of 2.00, leading the league in both categories.{{cite news |date=April 16, 2025 |title=Jets' Connor Hellebuyck joins elite company with 47th win |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/jets-connor-hellebuyck-joins-elite-company-with-47th-win/ |work=Sportsnet Canadian Press |access-date=April 16, 2025}} The Jets allowed only 191 goals across 82 games, and he received the Jennings Trophy for the second consecutive year.{{Cite web |title=Hellebuyck of Jets wins William M. Jennings Trophy again |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/connor-hellebuyck-of-winnipeg-jets-wins-william-m-jennings-trophy-2024-2025-season |website=NHL.com |date=April 16, 2025 |access-date=April 18, 2025}}

{{MedalTableTop|name=|File:Leon Draisaitl and Connor Hellebuyck by 2eight DSC0829.jpg|220px|Hellebuyck with the USA at the 2015 World Hockey Championship}}

{{MedalCountry|{{USA}}}}

{{MedalSport|Ice hockey}}

{{MedalCompetition|World Championships|}}

{{MedalBronze|2015 Czech Republic|}}

{{MedalBottom}}

Hellebuyck was chosen by the United States to play at the 2015 Men's World Ice Hockey Championships.{{cite web | url = http://millcitysports.com/articles/13688-connor-hellebuyck-us-national-team-world-championship-winnipeg-jets | title = Connor Hellebuyck selected to U.S. National team for Worlds | publisher = millcitysports.com | date = April 2, 2015 | accessdate = April 2, 2015 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150509062935/http://millcitysports.com/articles/13688-connor-hellebuyck-us-national-team-world-championship-winnipeg-jets | archive-date = May 9, 2015 | url-status = dead}} Hellebuyck would backstop the USA to a bronze medal in the tournament.{{cite web|url=https://www.thescore.com/nhl/news/766019|title=USA wins bronze with shutout win over Czech Republic at World Championship|publisher=The Score|date=May 17, 2015|accessdate=July 3, 2015}} Hellebuyck posted a record of 7–1–0 with a pair of shutouts during his eight tournament games. He would also finish with a 1.37 goals-against average and a .948 saving percentage. His seven wins tied a U.S. record for most in a single tournament set in 1939.{{cite web|url=http://millcitysports.com/articles/13955-connor-hellebuyck-u-s-take-home-bronze-at-iihf-world-championships|title=Connor Hellebuyck, U.S. take home bronze at IIHF World Championships|publisher=Mill City Sports|accessdate=May 18, 2015}} Hellebuyck had been named to the initial roster of Team North America for the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.{{cite web|url=http://millcitysports.com/articles/18842-connor-hellebuyck-named-to-team-north-america-world-cup-roster|title=Connor Hellebuyck named to Team North America World Cup roster|publisher=Mill City Sports|accessdate=March 2, 2016}}

Hellebuyck and his wife Andrea have two children together.{{cite web |last1=Leite |first1=AJ |title=There's A New Hellebuyck In Winnipeg! |url=https://www.energy106.ca/2021/11/02/theres-a-new-hellebuyck-in-winnipeg/ |access-date=September 12, 2023 |date=November 2, 2021}} In 2023, Hellebuyck co-authored two children's books about mental health with Thom Van Dycke titled "Bucky Beats the Blues" and "Is Something Wrong With Weasel?"{{cite web |last1=Ates |first1=Murat |title=Winnipeg Jets star Connor Hellebuyck opens up about mental health, children's book: 'I know my truths' |url=https://theathletic.com/4290392/2023/03/10/winnipeg-jets-connor-hellebuyck-book-mental-health/ |publisher=The Athletic |access-date=September 12, 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230311011452/https://theathletic.com/4290392/2023/03/10/winnipeg-jets-connor-hellebuyck-book-mental-health/ |archive-date=March 11, 2023 |date=March 10, 2023}}

{{reflist}}

• {{Ice hockey stats}}

{{s-start}}

{{s-ach}}

{{succession box | before = Johnny Gaudreau | title = Hockey East Tournament MVP | years = 2013, 2014 | after = Jack Eichel}}

{{succession box | before = Parker Milner | title = Hockey East Goaltending Champion | years = 2012–13 | after = Thatcher Demko}}

{{succession box | before = Award created | title = Mike Richter Award | years = 2013–14 | after = Zane McIntyre}}

{{succession box | before = Andrei Vasilevskiy | before2 = Linus Ullmark | title = Vezina Trophy | years = 2020
2024 | after = Marc-André Fleury | after2 = Incumbent}}

{{succession box | before = Linus Ullmark
Jeremy Swayman | title = William M. Jennings Trophy | years = 2024 | after = Incumbent}}

{{s-end}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Hellebuyck, Connor}}

Category:1993 births

Category:Living people

Category:AHCA Division I men's ice hockey All-Americans

Category:American people of Belgian descent

Category:American men's ice hockey goaltenders

Category:Ice hockey people from Oakland County, Michigan

Category:Ice hockey players from Michigan

Category:Manitoba Moose players

Category:National Hockey League All-Stars

Category:Odessa Jackalopes players

Category:People from Commerce, Michigan

Category:St. John's IceCaps players

Category:UMass Lowell River Hawks men's ice hockey players

Category:Vezina Trophy winners

Category:Winnipeg Jets draft picks

Category:Winnipeg Jets players

Category:21st-century American sportsmen

Category:4 Nations Face-Off players