Connor Hellebuyck Earns Victory in New Jersey Devils Debut Against Dallas Stars

Connor Hellebuyck stopped 16 of 17 shots as the New Jersey Devils defeated the Dallas Stars 5-1 on Tuesday night.

Connor Hellebuyck stopped 16 of 17 shots in his New Jersey debut to lead the Devils to a 5-1 victory over the Dallas Stars on Tuesday night. The 33-year-old goaltender, who was traded from the Winnipeg Jets four days prior, allowed only one goal while his teammates provided a multigoal lead for the majority of the contest. This appearance marked Hellebuyck's first NHL action since April 13, following a suspension for failing to report to training camp.

Devils coach Sheldon Keefe described the three-time Vezina Trophy winner's performance as exceptional, noting the goaltender appeared to be in midseason form. Hellebuyck entered the game with a career .916 save percentage and 345 wins, ranking fifth all-time among U.S.-born goaltenders. Before joining New Jersey, he spent 11 seasons with the Jets and recently won an Olympic gold medal with the United States in Milan Cortina.

New Jersey forward Jack Hughes finished the game wearing a bubble on his helmet after losing a tooth during play. Hellebuyck, who has five seasons remaining on a seven-year contract with an $8.5 million annual cap hit, had only participated in one full practice and an optional morning skate before the start. The victory improved his career record against the Stars to 15-12-0.