Penguins Forward Focused On Games, Not Contract
The Pittsburgh Penguins and Jake Guentzel are both yet to make a contract extension a main focus.
Since the start of the new year for NHL contracts, the Pittsburgh Penguins have been able to offer an extension to one of the best scorers on the roster.
The 2023-24 season is the final year of forward Jake Guentzel’s contract and at any moment, the Penguins could offer him a new deal.
Despite the window of opportunity being open, there is yet to be discussions between the two parties, but for good reason.
According to president and general manager Kyle Dubas, before he and the team can consider opening talks, they want to see Guentzel return to full health.
Guentzel underwent offseason ankle surgery and wasn’t expected to be in the lineup to start the season.
With a shocking return to the lineup on opening night, Guentzel has said he’s still working his way back to 100%.
Not only has Guentzel made his way back to the lineup, but he’s gotten off to a rocking start with six points in three games.
For Guentzel, a new contract is on his mind, but his main focus is feeling better and winning hockey games.
“I’m not too worried about it right now,” Guentzel said. "Obviously, something can happen whenever, but I’m just trying to play hockey.”
The Penguins will likely want to wrap up a new deal for Guentzel in the near future, especially if he continues this hot streak in the early stages of the year.
Guentzel’s new deal will likely be an expensive one, but he could very well be worth every dime.
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