Report: Penguins Nearing Jake Guentzel Trade
The Pittsburgh Penguins are on the cusp of trading Jake Guentzel.
PITTSBURGH—The NHL trade deadline is just a couple of days away, and the Pittsburgh Penguins are likely ready to make their big move. Jake Guentzel has been a name on the trade market all season, and his time with the Penguins is likely coming to an end.
According to TSN’s Darren Dreger, the Penguins want to trade Guentzel as early as tomorrow evening.
Dregger tweeted, “Sources say the Penguins are hoping to have a trade in place for Jake Guentzel by tomorrow evening.”
The Penguins are set to take on the Columbus Blue Jackets, followed by a day off when Dreger speculates a trade can take place. Dreger also notes that the Penguins are looking for “quality over quantity” as part of the return for Guentzel.
“Would like a 1st, young NHL player, plus prospects.”
It’s been reported recently that the Penguins are searching for proven players or prospects more than draft picks. A first-round pick will likely still be part of the return, but depending on where Guentzel is heading, it may be a late-round selection.
Guentzel is an automatic boost for any playoff team and could be a massive piece to a Stanley Cup run. It’s very possible the Penguins will get the 32nd overall pick in return.
It isn't clear what team or teams the Penguins are talking with about a Guentzel deal, but each of the front runners have been sure shot playoff teams. Teams like the Vegas Golden Knights or Vancouver Canucks could turn into Stanley Cup contenders with Guentzel on their roster.
The final hours of Guentzel in Pittsburgh are here. Playoffs seem fully out of reach for the Penguins in 2023-24, but they will look to retool and be right back in the fight next year.
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