Brief

Jets coach says Hellebuyck’s future remains uncertain as suspension ends

Coach Scott Arniel says the Jets must await GM Kevin Cheveldayoff’s decision on Connor Hellebuyck after his 19‑day suspension ends on Friday.

By Felo News Desk · Published Tue, 20 Oct 2026 08:16:27 GMT

Winnipeg Jets head coach Scott Arniel told reporters on Monday that the team still lacks clarity on goaltender Connor Hellebuyck’s status as his 19‑day suspension is set to expire on Friday.

What happened

Hellebuyck was suspended for 19 days after failing to report to training camp, a penalty that began earlier this month. The suspension is scheduled to end on Friday, prompting the Jets to consider next steps amid the player’s earlier trade request.

What the reports add

Arniel said he has “very little information” about the scenario and that the only way the issue will resolve is if general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff executes a trade before the suspension lifts. He noted that the team’s upcoming two‑game road trip against Central Division opponents will proceed without a “three‑ring circus” despite the uncertainty.

What was said

"When it comes to Helly’s scenario, honestly I don’t really have a lot of information," Arniel told the press, according to the Winnipeg Free Press. "I know everybody knows (about) Friday. That’s all we know." He added, "The only real way that this story goes away is for Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff to make a trade between now and Friday. Things will play themselves out, and we’ll have a lot more answers for you… when that time arrives. It’s all unknown right now for all of us. (Cheveldayoff) is handling that, he’s dealing with that stuff."

How it came about

Hellebuyck requested a trade in late August and refused to report to camp, leading to the suspension announced in September. Earlier Felo News coverage noted that the suspension could cost him over $925,000 in salary and that the Jets were exploring trade partners such as Edmonton, Buffalo, Carolina and Los Angeles. Arniel’s comments come as the team prepares for the road trip while awaiting the GM’s decision.

Key facts

Connor Hellebuyck’s 19‑day suspension ends on Friday. (winnipegfreepress.com)
Jets coach Scott Arniel says he has little information on Hellebuyck’s future. (winnipegfreepress.com)
Arniel says a trade by GM Kevin Cheveldayoff before Friday could resolve the situation. (winnipegfreepress.com)
Hellebuyck requested a trade in late August and missed training camp. (winnipegfreepress.com)