Connor Hellebuyck Trade to Devils Fuels New Dylan Larkin Trade Speculation Involving Hurricanes

The National Hockey League has witnessed a major trade shakeup on October 23, 2026, as star goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was officially traded from the Winnipeg Jets to the New Jersey Devils. This blockbuster move has had immediate ripple effects, particularly intensifying trade rumors surrounding Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin and his possible destination at the Carolina Hurricanes.

Hellebuyck’s Trade to the Devils: End of a Saga

Connor Hellebuyck, a three-time Vezina Trophy winner and recent Olympic gold medallist with Team USA, was one of the most sought-after players on the trade market. After several weeks of speculation linking him to contenders like the Carolina Hurricanes, Buffalo Sabres, and Utah Mammoth, the Jets finalized a deal with the Devils on October 23, 2026. The Devils sent a package including forwards Dawson Mercer and Nick Bjugstad, goalie Nico Daws, a 2026 first-round pick (12th overall – Alexander Command), a 2029 second-round pick, and a 2027 seventh-round pick to Winnipeg in exchange for Hellebuyck[1][4][10].

This trade concluded a long buildup, during which Hellebuyck was suspended and withheld from play while seeking a trade. The Hurricanes, though previously considered a frontrunner for acquiring Hellebuyck, ultimately did not submit an offer surpassing that from New Jersey[3][4].

Dylan Larkin Emerges as the New Trade Focus

With Hellebuyck’s departure from the trade radar, attention immediately turned to another prominent NHL figure seeking a move: Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin. Larkin recently expanded his no-trade clause approved trade list to ten teams, now including the Carolina Hurricanes and New Jersey Devils[2][5]. Given Larkin’s desire to join a Stanley Cup contender based in the United States, Carolina remains an obvious fit, especially as they pursue greater offensive depth and playoff success[2][7].

Larkin’s inclusion of the Devils on his trade list is particularly notable in light of their acquisition of Hellebuyck. The Devils, now appearing more competitive with the addition of an elite goaltender, could be a compelling destination for Larkin, who has existing ties with players like Jack Hughes and could reunite with Olympic teammate Hellebuyck[5][9].

Potential Implications for the Carolina Hurricanes

Carolina currently sits atop the Eastern Conference with an 8-2-2 record but seeks to reinforce its Stanley Cup championship credentials. The Hurricanes’ goaltending position has come under scrutiny after Brandon Bussi’s challenging outings, heightening urgency for an upgrade and making their initial interest in Hellebuyck understandable[4].

Failing to acquire Hellebuyck, the Hurricanes are widely expected to refocus their trade ambitions on Larkin. Adding Larkin would bolster their depth at center, complementing stars like Nikolaj Ehlers and Seth Jarvis, and increase their offensive weaponry to maintain dominance in the offensive zone[2][7]. Carolina’s prospect Alexander Nikishin could also be used as trade leverage, potentially packaged in a deal for Larkin[2][7].

Detroit’s Requested Return and Trade Dynamics

The Red Wings reportedly seek a return involving two NHL players, a prospect, and a first-round pick for Larkin, aligning well with Carolina’s assets. A potential package includes Alexander Nikishin, Jesperi Kotkaniemi, Bradly Nadeau, and a first-round draft pick. This trade would provide Detroit with young, talented players who could help maintain competitiveness while initiating a rebuild process around players like Moritz Seider and Lucas Raymond[7].

However, negotiating such a significant deal involves complexity due to Larkin still playing and Detroit’s valuation demands, factors that slow progress despite mutual interest[5][7].

Broader NHL Trade Market Effects

This Hellebuyck trade and ensuing Larkin rumors also impact other teams. The Minnesota Wild, for example, have made multiple trade offers for Larkin and see him as a key piece to retain elite defenseman Quinn Hughes. The Wild’s general manager faces pressure to solidify a core capable of deep playoff runs while managing Hughes’ pending contract decision[6][11].

Furthermore, New Jersey’s bold move positions them as significant players in reshaping NHL contender dynamics, potentially enticing Hughes to join his brothers and adding leverage in trade talks involving Larkin[9][11].

Conclusion

The completion of Connor Hellebuyck’s trade to the New Jersey Devils marks a critical turning point in the NHL’s trade market. The Carolina Hurricanes’ inability to secure Hellebuyck pivots the focus squarely onto Dylan Larkin, whose expanded trade list and interest from Carolina and the Devils drive high-stakes negotiations. Detroit’s demands and the competitive valuations from interested teams inject uncertainty into the pending resolution, while the maneuverings of teams like Minnesota illustrate the interconnected ripples flowing from this deal.

As the 2026-27 NHL season progresses, fans and analysts alike will closely watch how the Hurricanes aim to bolster their roster, Detroit calibrates its rebuilding efforts, and the Devils leverage their new assets in pursuit of postseason success.