Connor Hellebuyck's potential move to Florida has fresh life after Jacob Markstrom left a game for Paul Maurice's Panthers.
Markstrom didn't return after the first period of Monday's 5-3 loss in Buffalo, and Florida offered no immediate update on his condition.
Akira Schmid came off the bench and made 18 saves. But the bigger question is whether Florida can count on its new starter moving forward.
Markstrom arrived to replace Sergei Bobrovsky after the longtime Panthers goalie signed with Toronto. An unexpected vacancy in the crease is exactly what Florida hoped to avoid.
The Panthers already have Aleksander Barkov and Brad Marchand missing extended time. Another significant absence would leave Maurice managing multiple holes in his lineup.
Hellebuyck remains an option because he has publicly requested a trade from Winnipeg. The Jets still control his contract, and any move would require a serious return.
Carolina, Buffalo and Utah have surfaced as potential destinations. Florida had reportedly fallen out of contention before Markstrom's exit changed the conversation.
Connor Hellebuyck suddenly makes sense for Florida again
Hellebuyck carries an $8.5 million cap hit and owns three Vezina Trophies. Florida would be chasing experience, but finding room for that contract presents a challenge.
There's another complication: Hellebuyck has a full no-move clause. Bill Zito cannot simply negotiate with Winnipeg and assume the goaltender will accept a move.
Markstrom has a $6 million cap hit and a 20-team no-trade list, limiting Florida's flexibility. The Panthers couldn't casually clear his contract to make space.
The Brady Tkachuk blockbuster also reduced Florida's supply of trade assets. That matters when pursuing one of the league's most decorated goaltenders.
Last season, Hellebuyck recorded an .895 save percentage, while Markstrom finished at .883 with New Jersey. Those numbers add another layer to the discussion.
For now, the Panthers need an answer on Markstrom. If he misses limited time, Schmid can provide cover without forcing an expensive trade.
If the absence grows, the pressure on Maurice and Zito changes. Hellebuyck isn't headed to Florida yet, but the Panthers have a new reason to call.
Should the Florida Panthers pursue Connor Hellebuyck if Jacob Markstrom misses significant time?
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