Connor Hellebuyck Becomes First Goalie Since Carey Price to Win Hart and Vezina Trophies in the Same Season
In a momentous night for the NHL and goaltending history, Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets has been named both the Hart Memorial Trophy winner (league MVP) and the Vezina Trophy recipient (best goaltender) for the 2024–25 season.
This rare achievement places Hellebuyck in elite company, becoming the first goaltender since Carey Price in 2015 to secure both prestigious awards in the same season — a feat accomplished by only a handful of netminders in NHL history.
🧤 A Season to Remember
Hellebuyck’s performance this season has been nothing short of sensational. The 31-year-old posted a 41-17-7 record, a .922 save percentage, and a 2.39 goals-against average, anchoring the Jets to one of their best regular seasons in franchise history.
He also recorded six shutouts, often standing tall in tight games and consistently delivering clutch performances that kept Winnipeg in playoff contention.
“Connor wasn’t just our backbone — he was our engine,” said Jets head coach Rick Bowness. “He gave us a chance to win every single night.”
🏆 Why the Double Award Matters
The Hart Memorial Trophy, voted on by members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association, is awarded to the “player judged most valuable to his team.” While typically awarded to high-scoring forwards or dominant defensemen, a goalie winning it is a significant rarity.
The Vezina Trophy, awarded by the NHL general managers, recognizes goaltending excellence across the league. Winning both awards means Hellebuyck was seen as not only the best goalie but also the most indispensable player overall.
This double honor underlines his central role in Winnipeg’s successful season and reignites the debate about the evolving importance of elite goaltending in the modern NHL.
🥅 Joining Elite Goaltending Company
Connor Hellebuyck now joins an exclusive club of goaltenders who have pulled off the rare Hart-Vezina sweep. Past members include:
- Carey Price (2015)
- José Théodore (2002)
- Dominik Hašek (1997, 1998)
- Jacques Plante (1962)
- Charlie Rayner (1950)
This achievement becomes even more impressive in the salary cap era, where team depth often overshadows individual brilliance.
🧊 What This Means for the Jets
With Hellebuyck signed through 2030, the Jets have stability at the most critical position in hockey. His dominance gives Winnipeg a strong foundation to build around, especially as the team continues to develop young talent around its core.
Hellebuyck’s recognition may also inspire front-office action in the offseason, as the Jets look to capitalize on their goalie’s prime years and make a deeper playoff push next season.
🎙️ Hellebuyck’s Reaction
Speaking at the awards ceremony in Las Vegas, Hellebuyck expressed deep gratitude:
“It’s an incredible honor to win either of these trophies, but both? I’m speechless. I’ve worked my entire career for moments like this, and I’m just thankful to my teammates, coaches, and the fans of Winnipeg.”
He added that while the awards are nice, his ultimate goal remains the Stanley Cup — a trophy that has eluded the Jets franchise.
📊 The Stats Behind the Story
- Games Played: 65
- Wins: 41
- Save Percentage: .922
- Goals Against Average: 2.39
- Shutouts: 6
- High-Danger Save %: Top 3 in the league
- Goalie Point Shares (GPS): League leader
His advanced stats further bolster the case that this was a season for the ages — not just for a goalie, but for any NHL player.
🌐 The Legacy and the Road Ahead
Connor Hellebuyck’s dual-award haul firmly cements his legacy as one of the premier goalies of his generation. In a league increasingly defined by offense, his recognition as MVP signals a renewed appreciation for elite goaltending.
As he enters the back half of his career, Hellebuyck now has the accolades — and the motivation — to chase the ultimate prize: bringing the Stanley Cup to Winnipeg.