Overview
- The Devils started Connor Hellebuyck in Dallas on Tuesday after acquiring him from the Winnipeg Jets in a blockbuster trade that followed his suspension for not reporting to Jets camp.
- Hellebuyck stopped 16 of 17 shots in his first NHL game since April 13 to help New Jersey beat the Stars 5-1, with Nico Hischier scoring twice and the Hughes brothers each recording a goal and an assist.
- Coach Sheldon Keefe said Hellebuyck was ready to play and praised his form, and Hellebuyck credited the Devils’ defense for limiting shots and letting him shake off rust.
- The win extended New Jersey’s streak of strong results and gave the team a veteran goaltender option while Winnipeg absorbed a multi-player, prospect and pick return that changes its roster makeup.
- Hellebuyck arrives with elite credentials—three Vezina trophies and a Hart Trophy season—after a long layoff, a seven-year contract with an $8.5 million cap hit, and expectations that he will be New Jersey’s long-term starting goalie.