Connor Hellebuyck signs with the Winnipeg Jets


By Michael Caples –

Commerce native Connor Hellebuyck has concluded an impressive college career, but it doesn’t mean he’s done playing hockey.

The UMass-Lowell netminder signed a three-year, two-way, entry-level contract with the Winnipeg Jets today.

Hellebuyck, a fifth-round pick in the 2012 NHL Draft by the Jets, played in 29 games during his sophomore NCAA season, posting a 18-9-2 record, 1.79 goals-against average and 0.941 save percentage.

He led the River Hawks to back-to-back Hockey East Tournament titles, taking home back-to-back MVP honors in the process.

Prior to playing for UMass-Lowell, Hellebuyck tended to the pipes for the NAHL’s Odessa Jackalopes. He’s also a Michigan high school hockey alum, having skated for Walled Lake Northern before making the jump to juniors.