New Jersey Devils Bench Star Goaltender for Return to Winnipeg
General manager Sunny Mehta cited a drop in expected win probability as the reason to rest Connor Hellebuyck against his former team.
By Aiko Petrov ·
The New Jersey Devils are approaching the top of their division with a strong record, yet a strategic decision regarding their goaltending rotation has drawn scrutiny from fans and analysts alike. The team will rest veteran goalie Connor Hellebuyck for Tuesday night's game against the Winnipeg Jets, his former club, in a move that contrasts with his personal desire to take the ice.
General manager Sunny Mehta explained that the organization debated the decision extensively before finalizing it. He stated that while Hellebuyck felt a duty to play in Canada, management calculated that starting him would reduce the team's expected win probability. This statistical reasoning prioritized a perceived higher likelihood of success with a different roster configuration over the traditional advantage of a rested, high-performing starter.
Hellebuyck will sit out the contest at the Canada Life Centre, granting him a full day of rest following Sunday's 4-0 shutout of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Jake Allen is expected to start for New Jersey instead. Despite being benched, Hellebuyck will participate in a media availability session after the morning skate, a courtesy arranged at his request.
The goaltender expressed a complex emotional stance on the trade that sent him to New Jersey last month. The deal involved the Jets receiving forward Dawson Mercer, forward Nico Daws, and a second-round draft pick in 2029. Hellebuyck acknowledged that his departure left a sour taste for some in Winnipeg, but he chose to focus on his positive memories and cherished moments in the city.
New Jersey enters the game with a 13-5 record, placing them four points behind the Carolina Hurricanes for the lead in the Metropolitan Division. The Devils have allowed only 1.96 goals per game during Hellebuyck's tenure, and he has maintained a 91.3% save percentage without a loss. The Boston Bruins currently hold the only other point total above New Jersey's 26 points in the standings.
