Connor Hellebuyck returned to Winnipeg on Tuesday night as a member of the New Jersey Devils, but he didn’t play. The decision drew criticism, especially after the Devils’ general manager said starting the three-time Vezina Trophy winner and former league MVP would lower the team’s chances of winning.
On Wednesday’s edition of his show, Craig Carton defended the choice, saying the Devils were right to keep Hellebuyck off the ice. Carton pointed to death threats the goalie had received in Winnipeg, which he said had contributed to Hellebuyck asking to be traded.
Carton said Hellebuyck had cared deeply about the Jets and had not wanted to leave the organization. In his view, the threats against Hellebuyck, his wife, children and dog came after the goalie helped the United States defeat Canada’s national team.
Hellebuyck was booed during warmups on his return and faced taunts throughout the game, despite not taking the ice. Carton argued that the Devils had acted cautiously to protect him from a potentially dangerous situation.
The Devils and Jets are scheduled to meet again later this month in New Jersey. Carton said he supported Hellebuyck and called him an American hero, adding that he might start watching hockey again when the goalie returns to play.
