Connor Hellebuyck calls for clarity on goaltender interference rules – The Hockey Writers – Jets Goaltending

Winnipeg Jets GOALKEEPER Connor Hellebuyck recently spoke out about the NHL’s inconsistent goaltender interference rules, particularly in response to a controversial call Brandon Hagel’his goal against the Jets. Hellebuyck described the incident as a missed opportunity to enforce what he believes should have been a goalie interference call, expressing frustration with how the league has handled such decisions.

For the past several years, Hellebuyck has actively sought to influence rule clarity on the issue, but progress has been slow. Here’s a look at Hellebuyck’s outlook and his concerns for the future of goalie interference rules in the NHL.

“I tried to help make it black and white”

Hellebuyck explained that he has been advocating for clearer goaltender interference rules for years. He even brought video clips, charts and bulleted suggestions to NHL Competition Committee meetings, where players, coaches and general managers gather annually to discuss rule changes. Hellebuyck’s goal was to establish clear, objective guidelines for what constitutes interference, which he believes would reduce controversy and help players adjust.

Despite his extensive efforts, he believes that his proposals have not led to substantial change. According to Hellebuyck, the committee often prefers to maintain the status quo, even when it provides strong evidence for a more black-and-white approach to interference calls.

One of Hellebuyck’s biggest frustrations revolves around the NHL’s definition of “accidental contact.” He argues that the term is applied too loosely, allowing goals that should be prohibited. Referring to Hagel’s recent goal, Hellebuyck noted how much excessive contact was not called when the player pushed it into the net. In Hellebuyck’s view, this type of contact should not be dismissed as incidental. He believes the NHL needs firmer guidelines, where substantial interference with a goaltender should result in a no-goal decision.

Connor Hellebuyck Winnipeg Jets — Connor Hellebuyck, Winnipeg Jets (Amy Irwin / The Hockey Writers)

For Hellebuyck, the crux of the matter is that players should be able to distinguish between accidental contact with porter and mix. He even suggested specific ways the NHL could tighten its definitions to prevent these gray areas.

The NHL’s Competition Committee: Trials and Rejections

Hellebuyck recounted a meeting where he presented a detailed proposal to the Competition Committee. He spent about 45 minutes walking the group through his ideas, supporting his points with clips and a diagram to make the rules more precise. However, it was met with resistance. Although his presentation sparked discussion, the committee ultimately decided not to take his suggestions further. That experience left Hellebuyck with the impression that they are unwilling to change the current interpretation of goaltender interference.

Hellebuyck acknowledged that some might see his efforts as biased because he is a goaltender. However, he maintained that his intentions are focused on consistency and fairness throughout the league.

The way forward for goalkeeper interference rules

In addition to wanting fair rulings for all, Hellebuyck noted that these controversial calls affect him personally. Allowing questionable goals doesn’t just impact his stats; he can change the course of the game and affect his team’s momentum. Despite these frustrations, he credited his teammates for their resilience, saying they continued to play hard and overcame setbacks.

Hellebuyck’s comments underscore an ongoing problem in the NHL. He believes there is a need for clarity in the application of goalkeeper interference. While his efforts have yet to produce change, his commitment to advocating for more definitive rules suggests that goaltenders across the league could benefit from his long-term persistence. If the NHL eventually adopts more concrete guidelines, it could lead to less controversy and a more consistent standard for players and fans.

For now, Hellebuyck’s quest for clarity reflects the broader struggle to balance tradition with the evolution of the game.