Connor Hellebuyck returns to Winnipeg Jets (optional) practice for first time

Back on November 21st we learned the Jets would be shutting down MVP Connor Hellebuyck who would require a minor arthroscopic knee procedure that he was scheduled to have on the 22nd.

A week ago we were told that he was close to getting back on the ice “pretty soon”.

Fast forward to two days ago and the three-time Vezina winner was on the ice for the first time. Of course his head coach Scott Arniel attempted to curb any additional questions regarding the status of 37 indicating “When you start seeing him in practice, then we’ll have a conversation”.

Just a day later TSN’s Darren Dreger provided a big update after Hellebuyck was back on the ice on Tuesday in Winnipeg suggesting it went well and that while 37 “actually wanted to play perhaps as early as this weekend” the team was gonna stay cautious but that he expected a start sooner rather than later.

“I’d look to have him back in the net starting for the Jets potentially next week.”

Which brings us to today. Just 18 days after his knee procedure, Hellebuyck is on the ice with his teammates at practice for the first time although it is worth noting that it was an optional practice.

Given the 4-6 weeks initial projection and the 2-7-1 stretch they are on without him, this could not have come at a better time for a club that is still within striking distance of the post-season.

Head coach Scott Arniel was asked after skate about Hellebuyck’s status. “He’s getting closer.” He indicated Hellebuyck was on the ice for 45 minutes before skate got underway.

Arniel still wasn’t prepared to indicate the timeline has changed.

“I’m not a doctor. I don’t know. He’s feeling really good. Two things: What happens after a big day today like today. How he feels when he wakes up in the morning and then the other side is conditioning. So those are the two biggest things for him.”

We will have to wait and see but definitely a positive step in the right direction for the reigning MVP.