Connor Hellebuyck’s next move heats up as Sharks enter sweepstakes

Connor Hellebuyck’s free-agent saga took a fresh twist on 13 Jul 2026 when the San Jose Sharks jumped into the sweepstakes for the U.S. netminder.

The Buffalo Sabres have long led the chase for Hellebuyck, but the Sharks are now circling after inking Eric Comrie, his former Winnipeg Jets teammate. Mike Grier, San Jose’s GM, has spent the summer reshaping the roster, and landing Hellebuyck would be his boldest swing yet.

Buffalo still looks like the likelier landing spot, according to Winnipeg Free Press columnist Mike McIntyre. Yet McIntyre admits the Sharks fit isn’t just a long shot. The Sharks’ rebuild is in overdrive, and Hellebuyck could vault them into playoff contention.

Hellebuyck, 29, is the marquee goalie on the market after backstopping Winnipeg to the playoffs each of the last three seasons. His durability and big-game resume make him the top target for clubs needing a starter.

The Sabres have been the frontrunner for weeks, but San Jose’s pursuit shows how fluid the race remains. The Sharks’ move for Comrie signals their intent to pair the tandem-just like in Winnipeg.

The clock is ticking. Hellebuyck can land anywhere from Buffalo to San Jose-or even a dark-horse bidder yet to emerge. His camp has kept talks quiet, but the Sharks’ sudden push adds pressure on the Sabres to close the gap.

Grier’s summer overhaul hinges on this one move. If Hellebuyck picks San Jose, the Sharks’ rebuild jumps from slow burn to full throttle overnight.

Buffalo still holds the inside track, but the Sharks’ late surge can’t be ignored. The Sabres’ front office must decide whether to sweeten their offer or risk losing Hellebuyck to a rival.

McIntyre’s take: Buffalo remains the logical fit, yet the Sharks’ sudden push proves Hellebuyck’s market isn’t locked up. The next two weeks could decide his next chapter-and shape the 2026-27 East race.