Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, a finalist for both the Vezina and Hart trophies, finds himself at the center of a playoff storm after being pulled for the third consecutive road game in a 5-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues. The defeat on Friday night forced a decisive Game 7, raising urgent questions about Hellebuyck’s form and the Jets’ playoff hopes
Hellebuyck, who posted 47 wins during the regular season, has struggled mightily in this series, especially away from home. In St. Louis, he allowed four goals in just over five minutes during the second period, and his save percentage on the road has plummeted to .758 over three games, conceding 16 goals on 66 shots Despite his regular-season dominance, his playoff numbers have faltered, and he has been unable to finish any of the three road games against the Blues
Jets coach Scott Arniel has repeatedly defended his star goalie, insisting the team’s defensive breakdowns share the blame. “Tonight was not about Connor. Tonight, we imploded in front of him,” Arniel said after Game 6 Still, the pressure is mounting as the Jets prepare for a winner-take-all showdown at home, where Hellebuyck’s stats have been significantly better (2.33 GAA at home vs. 7. on the road)
With everything on the line in Game 7, all eyes are on Hellebuyck and whether he can rediscover his elite form-or if the Blues will complete the upset.
