Winnipeg Jets coach confirms Connor Hellebuyck's status ahead of their season opener against Edmonton

Yesterday, it was confirmed that superstar goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was taking a quick leave of absence from the Jets ahead of the 2024/25 season, with some fearing it may force him to miss their season opener against the Edmonton Oilers. With just over 24 hours until that season opener, those fears are warranted, but now Head Coach Scott Arniel has offered an update on the situation, and it appears to be a very positive one for Jets fans.

According to a report, Hellebuyck will again take the ice on Tuesday for a quick skate, and will be travelling with the team to Edmonton in what should be an incredible showdown against the superstar duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Furthering that report, Arniel has also offered an update on their three goaltender situation, which has been dividing fans leading into the 2024/25 season.

As of right now, Arniel reveals that they will continue carrying three goaltenders when the season begins, with the team set to reassess where they are at once they return home to Winnipeg.

If Hellebuyck was dealing with an injury situation, this approach would make perfect sense, but with his absence seemingly short, there's no logical reason for the team to continue carrying three goaltenders moving forward. With Stanley Cup hopes this season, all of these issues should be addressed early in the year, and if the Jets can get rolling like they did a year ago, there's no doubting that they'll be a playoff threat in the Central Division once more, especially with a healthy and motivated Connor Hellebuyck.