Chris Hellebuyck, the older brother of Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, carved out his own path in hockey before retiring in 2016–17.
Born on March 8, 1992, in Commerce Township, Michigan, Chris grew up in the same supportive family environment that helped shape Connor’s career.
While Connor became an NHL star, Chris pursued hockey at the junior and collegiate levels, showing skill and dedication on the ice.
Chris played for the Lansing Capitals 18U AAA team in the North American Prospects Hockey League, where he recorded 11 points in 25 games.
He then moved to the Metro Jets in the NA3HL, scoring 23 goals and 43 points in 42 games. His journey also included a brief stint with the Odessa Jackalopes in the NAHL, before continuing at Oakland University in the ACHA, where he played several seasons and contributed consistently as a forward.
Although Chris did not reach the NHL like his younger brother, his hockey career reflected the same passion for the sport that runs in the Hellebuyck family.
His retirement in 2016–17 marked the end of his competitive playing days, but his role as Connor’s older brother remains an important part of the family story.
Together with their younger brother Andrej, the Hellebuyck siblings grew up in a household where sports, creativity, and determination were encouraged by their parents, Chuck and Erin.
Chris’s journey shows that while not every player reaches the professional spotlight, the love of the game and the discipline it teaches can shape a person’s life.
His story adds depth to the Hellebuyck family legacy, reminding us that Connor’s rise to NHL stardom was built on a foundation of shared effort, support, and family values.
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