Connor Hellebuyck remains a major trade name as Scott Arniel's Winnipeg Jets weigh what comes next in the crease.
Mike McIntyre believes Buffalo is the most logical landing spot if Winnipeg decides to move its star goaltender.
San Jose also remains in the conversation. McIntyre had already viewed the Sharks as a possible fit before they added Eric Comrie.
That addition could make San Jose more appealing to Hellebuyck, given his familiarity with Comrie from their time together in Winnipeg.
No trade has been confirmed, and neither destination should be treated as the clear winner. The discussion remains centred on potential fit rather than an active deal nearing completion.
Buffalo's case starts with need. A proven starter could stabilize the crease and give the Sabres a far more dependable foundation.
" Mike McIntyre: Re Connor Hellebuyck: I still believe Buffalo is the most logical landing spot; I also keep coming back to San Jose; and that was before they...inked Eric Comrie, which no doubt would make the sales pitch to Hellebuyck even easier - Winnipeg Free Press (7/11) "
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New Connor Hellebuyck development has Winnipeg fans talking everywhere
San Jose offers a different pitch. The Sharks could surround Hellebuyck with a younger roster while using Comrie as a familiar voice during the transition.
Winnipeg still controls the process. Kevin Cheveldayoff has little reason to accept a package that doesn't address several holes across the roster.
Hellebuyck carries an $8,500,000 cap hit, so any interested club must handle both the acquisition price and the long-term financial commitment.
That narrows the field. Buffalo and San Jose may have reasons to explore the move, but the return must also make sense for a Jets team that would be giving up its most important player.
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Arniel would then need a new plan in net. Moving Hellebuyck without a reliable replacement could create a larger problem than the assets coming back solve.
Comrie's presence alone won't decide anything. It simply gives San Jose another selling point if the Sharks choose to make a serious push.
Buffalo still looks like the cleaner hockey fit, especially if management wants immediate stability. San Jose may offer a more patient path built around its developing core.
Until Winnipeg receives a package it can accept, Hellebuyck stays put. The destination debate is growing, but the Jets still hold the most important card.
Is Buffalo the best trade destination for Connor Hellebuyck?
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