A recently traded top forward of the Pittsburgh Penguins may be the most coveted free agent this summer.

PITTSBURGH – Just before the trade deadline, the Pittsburgh Penguins dealt forward Jake Guentzel to the Carolina Hurricanes. The trade wasn’t an easy decision for the Penguins front office, but with Guentzel in the final year of his contract and no negotiations taking place, it was the right thing to do.

As the Hurricanes battle as favorites in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Guentzel’s future in Carolina still isn’t certain. While the Hurricanes want to re-sign Guentzel, he may test the open market as a free agent.

If Guentzel makes his way to free agency, he will surely be one of the most sought-after players available. According to Frank Seravalli of Daily Facecoff, Guentzel is debuting at No. 2 on his top 50 unrestricted free agents list.

Florida Panthers forward Sam Reinhart slots in at No. 1, but there are great expectations he will get extended there before testing the market.

While saying Guenzel has been a perfect fit with the Hurricanes, Seravalli believes it’s likely Guentzel won’t stay in Carolina.

“I think he fits well, but look at what’s happening with Rod Brind’Amour,” Seravalli said. “If you’re doing that to your franchise icon… what are you doing to a newly acquired player who is 30 years old and needs a massive new contract?”

Seravalli is referring to the tough negotiations that have taken place between the Hurricanes and their head coach. Under Brind’Amour, the Hurricanes have built themselves into a consistent Stanley Cup contender, but even he may not return as head coach.

If the Hurricanes aren’t willing to play ball with one of the best coaches in the league, they may not look for an extension with someone who just arrived.

Guentzel played 17 regular season games with the Hurricanes, scoring 25 points (8G-17A). He has a goal and four assists for five points through six playoff games.

Daily Faceoff projects Guentzel’s next contract to be a six-year deal with an average annual value of $8 million. Guentzel is due for a payday, and if the Hurricanes decide to let him walk, teams will be lining up to meet or exceed that projection.

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