Jets star goaltender Connor Hellebuyck shockingly exits NHL for an indefinite period of time

Now, just before the crucial 2024-25 season gets underway, reporters have revealed that Hellebuyck will be taking a leave of absence immediately before the puck drops, shocking the whole NHL.

Jets coach, Arniel says he might not practice on Tuesday either, but he should be in the team when they fly to Edmonton on Wednesday to play the Oilers in the season opener.

On Tuesday, Eric Comrie and Kaapo Kähkönen-both of whom signed free-agent contracts with Winnipeg in the off-season-were skating for the Jets.

For Winnipeg, Hellebuyck dressed for three preseason games, including the final contest against the Calgary Flames. In that game, the 31-year-old stopped 32 of the 34 shots he faced, aiding the Jets in their 3-2 victory.

In 60 games last season, the two-time Vezina Trophy winner finished with a 37-19-4 record, 2.39 GAA, and.921 save percentage.

Connor Hellebuyck will travel to Edmonton with the team and will skate on the ice for a brief practice with goalie coach Wade Flaherty, according to head coach Scott Arniel.

Hellebuyck will be back on the ice against the Oilers and is expected to play a significant role as the team looks to start 2024-25 strong. It's unclear what will happen to his absence once the team returns to Winnipeg.