Devils announcer reveals scary postgame scene with Jets fans: ‘Is this Hellebuyck’s hotel?’

Devils announcer Don La Greca said Jets fans followed him and the New Jersey broadcast crew to their hotel after Connor Hellebuyck’s return to Winnipeg, shouting to ask whether the goalie was staying there. Police were outside the hotel. The incident followed a hostile reception for Hellebuyck and reflects the anger surrounding his departure from the Jets.

Hellebuyck, who spent 11 years in Winnipeg before being traded to New Jersey last month, did not play on Tuesday after Devils general manager Sunny Mehta said his appearance would reduce the team’s expected win probability. Fans booed him, chanted insults and held critical signs; Hellebuyck had said he wanted to play. He also said threats and incidents involving his family helped confirm his decision to leave, while La Greca said most people were nice and that he was not afraid.