Connor Hellebuyck Reacts to Devils Decision to Sit Him for Return Game Against Jets

I’m disappointed but I understand, Connor Hellebuyck told reporters (Yahoo Sports).

Devils bench Connor Hellebuyck Connor Hellebuyck shared his reaction after it was announced that he will not start against the Jets. Tuesday’s game marks the first time Hellebuyck visits Winnipeg since the blockbuster trade that sent him to New Jersey.

Sunny Mehta Decides Hellebuyck Will Not Start Nov. 10 Game

Devils general manager Sunny Mehta announced that Hellebuyck will not start the Nov. 10 game against the Winnipeg Jets, a decision attributed to expected win probability (Yahoo Sports). Head coach Sheldon Keefe cited a heavy workload, noting that Hellebuyck was playing his third game in six nights (Yahoo Sports).

Mehta stated in the release that the organizational choice was debated at length and that starting Hellebuyck would potentially give the team a reduction in expected win probability. He had his first practice with New Jersey on Oct. 26 and his first start on Oct. 27 against the Dallas Stars.

Hellebuyck made it clear that it was not his decision and revealed he tried to get management to reconsider.

Selfishly I want to play but when you’re looking at the team and what’s best for the team, I understand where they’re coming from. I love Winnipeg and playing there again and just facing the music, and seeing the reaction, it’d be nice, but it’s out of my hands, Hellebuyck said (Yahoo Sports).

He added that the matter is above him and that he will be ready whenever his name is called.

Devils Sitting Hellebuyck vs Jets

Fans Voice Frustration While Hellebuyck Accepts Management Decision

The news sparked a debate within the hockey community, with many fans voicing frustration over the choice to start Jake Allen instead. Hellebuyck stated that he was adamant about wanting to play against his former team, but ultimately had to listen to management after discussing the matter at length.

We definitely had a conversation and I told them my thoughts on it, and they told me theirs. And at the end of the day, I had to listen to them and I could only push so hard, Hellebuyck said.

Connor Hellebuyck Reacts to Devils Decision to Sit Him for Return Game Against Jets — Photo: ca.sports.yahoo.com

Meanwhile, questions remain about how the Jets will handle a video tribute for his return, especially since Hellebuyck typically stays in the room with the goaltending coach rather than sitting on the bench when he backs up. Hellebuyck is scheduled to meet with the media after the Devils’ morning skate at the Canada Life Centre.