Winnipeg Jets sealed a two‑year deal with free‑agent goalie Stuart Skinner Wednesday, sparking fresh trade chatter about star starter Connor Hellebuyck. Skinner’s contract carries a $3.75 million average annual value. The 27‑year‑old posted a 23‑17‑9 record and .888 save percentage in 50 games with Edmonton and Pittsburgh.

Skinner, who joined Edmonton last season before a mid‑season trade to Pittsburgh, gave the Jets a seasoned starter familiar with Canadian markets and locker‑room chemistry. His postseason experience includes back‑to‑back Stanley Cup finals in 2024 and 2025, though he went 0‑3 in Pittsburgh’s first‑round exit.

Hellebuyck, signed through 2031 with an $8.5 million cap hit, posted his lowest career save percentage (.895) last season and voiced frustration after the Jets’ slump. The no‑movement clause locks him until the 10‑team list next year, but Skinner’s arrival gives management a ready replacement should a trade materialize.

With Skinner’s proven stats and experience, the Jets can immediately slot him into the starting rotation, potentially stabilizing a defense that struggled to contain opponents. If a deal for Hellebuyck proceeds, the franchise could retain a top‑tier netminder while freeing cap space for other key acquisitions.