Devils acquire 3-time Vezina winner Connor Hellebuyck from Jets - ESPN

The New Jersey Devils have acquired goaltender Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets, the teams announced Friday.

In return, the Jets receive three forwards — Dawson Mercer, Nick Bjugstad and Alexander Command — as well as goalie Nico Daws, a seventh-round draft pick in 2027 and a second-round selection in 2029.

Also, Hellebuyck has forfeited nearly $928,000 in salary after sitting out the beginning of the season with the Jets, sources told ESPN.

Buyck'd around and found our guy. https://t.co/QWnlKQ0O1B

As recently as last weekend, the Jets were underwhelmed by the trade offers they had received for Hellebuyck, sources said. However, negotiations gained significant momentum Thursday night, with New Jersey emerging as a leading contender to land the star goaltender.

The Jets had motivation to get the deal done this weekend, as Hellebuyck's suspension for failing to report to training camp was set to expire Friday. In addition, Winnipeg is hosting the Heritage Classic on Sunday and wants the focus to be on the event, the team and the city, and not on any drama surrounding Hellebuyck.

Hellebuyck, 33, requested a trade from Winnipeg this summer, saying it was in the best interest of him and his family, with sources telling ESPN that Hellebuyck's reasons for wanting out of Winnipeg extended beyond hockey.

In September, Winnipeg GM Kevin Cheveldayoff confirmed that the organization had requested additional security for Hellebuyck after he helped the United States defeat Canada in the gold medal game at the Winter Olympics and returned to Winnipeg. The Jets contacted police and took measures to address online and physical safety concerns.

The Devils and Jets will tangle twice this season, with New Jersey visiting Winnipeg on