Devils Rest Hellebuyck Ahead of Jets Game

New Jersey Devils goalie Connor Hellebuyck will not play in his first game back in Winnipeg, the team announced Sunday. The decision comes just one day before the Devils face the Jets on Tuesday night.

Hellebuyck, 33, described himself as "disappointed" by the news. He spoke to reporters Sunday night after his team beat the Toronto Maple Leafs 4-0. "Selfishly, I want to play, but when you're looking at what's best for the team, I understand where they're coming from," he said.

The Devils' general manager, Sunny Mehta, explained the logic behind the move in a statement released the same evening. Mehta said the organization debated the choice at length. He noted that playing in this specific game could lead to a "reduction in our expected win probability" against a former teammate.

Hellebuyck made 23 saves during Sunday's shutout victory in Toronto. Since joining the Devils, he has a perfect 5-0-0 record with a 1.96 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage. His performance has been consistent since his arrival.

The goaltender spent 11 seasons with Winnipeg before requesting a trade. He was suspended after failing to report to training camp this season. The 33-year-old, who won Olympic gold with the U.S. men's team earlier this year, waived his no-movement clause to facilitate his transfer to New Jersey on Oct. 23.

Jets fans have expressed strong reactions to Hellebuyck's departure. Tuesday's game was expected to draw a heated response similar to other contentious player returns this season. Hellebuyck said he was told about his status within the last day or two.

He plans to meet with media after the morning skate on Tuesday to discuss his reasons for leaving. Hellebuyck recently cited "very challenging circumstances" involving his family as a factor in his decision to seek a trade. He expects to face a "pretty sour taste" from the local crowd but intends to maintain a positive attitude.