Connor Hellebuyck remains central to Scott Arniel's Jets as Buffalo weighs whether a massive trade price is worth paying.
The Sabres have been strongly linked to Hellebuyck, with reports suggesting the goaltender could be open to Buffalo as a destination.
That still doesn't confirm Winnipeg is actively shopping him. It also doesn't prove Hellebuyck has agreed to waive his trade protection for the Sabres.
A reported draft-week framework included Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, Jack Quinn, the No. 4 pick and another prospect. The proposed move never reached completion.
That package shows the size of Winnipeg's potential demand. Kevin Cheveldayoff would be moving an elite goaltender signed for 5 more seasons.
Buffalo must decide whether upgrading the crease justifies weakening other parts of a roster expected to take another step.
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Connor Hellebuyck blockbuster could force a major decision in Buffalo
Hellebuyck would give the Sabres a proven starter capable of stealing difficult nights and stabilizing the team when its transition game breaks down.
But Luukkonen wasn't the problem last season. He posted a .909 save percentage and finished with 10.5 goals saved above expected.
Buffalo also lost major offence when Alex Tuch and Bowen Byram departed. Adding Quinn to the outgoing package would remove another established scoring option.
Those 3 players combined for 64 goals last season. Replacing that production would become much harder after surrendering more assets for Hellebuyck.
The Sabres could lean on Konsta Helenius, Noah Östlund, Josh Doan and Zach Benson for internal growth. That is a significant bet for a team moving beyond rebuild patience.
Hellebuyck would raise Buffalo's floor immediately, but the ceiling depends on what remains around him. A star goalie cannot replace every lost goal or solve every depth issue.
Winnipeg also has little reason to accept a discounted return. If Hellebuyck is truly available, other clubs could force Buffalo to increase its offer.
The Sabres should remain in the conversation because players of Hellebuyck's calibre rarely surface. They still need firm limits before sacrificing Quinn, multiple first-round picks and more young talent.
This deal makes sense only if Buffalo keeps enough scoring and depth to support its new starter. Acquiring Hellebuyck would end one question while creating several others.
Should Buffalo trade Jack Quinn and multiple first-round picks for Connor Hellebuyck?
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