New Jersey made quite the impression in their game against the Stars.
Connor Hellebuyck debuted with the Devils in Dallas on Tuesday, just a few days after a big trade that brought the Olympic gold medal-winning goaltender to New Jersey, ending a prolonged dispute with the Jets, who he had asked to be traded from.
The Devils convincingly defeated the Stars 5-1, with Hellebuyck making 16 saves and allowing just one goal in the second period.
This match marked Hellebuyck’s first NHL start since April 13, 2026—Winnipeg’s last game of the previous season—and represented the start of a new chapter for him in New Jersey.
During his debut, Hellebuyck made six saves in the first period as his new teammates took the lead just under three minutes into the game.
Nico Hischier scored twice, while Jack Hughes and Luke Hughes each contributed a goal and an assist, leading the Devils to their fourth consecutive win.
Hellebuyck, a three-time Vezina Trophy winner who also helped Team USA win gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, had been sidelined from NHL play due to the standoff with the Jets.
In late August, he publicly requested a trade despite having five years remaining on his contract, and he did not report for training last month.
The Jets then suspended him for missing camp.
After his first practice with the Devils on Monday, Hellebuyck expressed his excitement, mentioning that he had been looking forward to this moment for quite some time. He felt it was good to adapt to a new team and enjoy the game.
“I’m really excited to play hockey again,” he shared. “That was the toughest part—wanting to get back out there but being unable to.”
As of Tuesday night, the Devils were sitting in third place in the Metropolitan Division.
