A couple of Metropolitan Division teams have been in close contact with the Pittsburgh Penguins about Jake Guentzel.

PITTSBURGH – The Jake Guentzel sweepstakes is hitting a fever pitch with the NHL trade deadline under 24 hours away, and the Pittsburgh Penguins might be making a deal within the division. At one point, as many as seven teams may have been in touch with the Penguins about Guentzel, but a pair of fellow Metropolitan Division teams emerged as new leaders.

The Carolina Hurricanes and New York Rangers have been mentioned as genuine contenders to land Guentzel. Both have what it takes to match what the Penguins are looking for in return and are looking for the right player to get them over a playoff hump.

According to Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff, the Hurricanes are still in on Guentzel because there is a possibility he would sign an extension to stay in Carolina.

“I believe Guentzel is intrigued and re-signing with the Canes,” Servalli said. “They are a team that doesn’t believe in rentals; Guentzel, in that case, might not be one.”

It’s been widely reported that wherever Guentzel goes, it may only be for the remainder of his current contract. That possibility of Guentzel looking to stay in Carolina makes them an attractive destination.

As for the Rangers, David Pagnotta of the Fourth Period has said they are intensifying their talks with the Penguins. Pagnotta joined the PM Team of 93.7 the Fan and talked about the Rangers being a possible front-runner.

Pagnotta pointed out that a first-round pick and young forward, Kaapo Kakko, could be part of the return.

“I believe there is a possibility that both would be part of the package,” Pagnotta said. The first-round pick and Kakko. Which is why I believe they are right near the top.”

Kakko was the second overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft but never really found his footing as a key member of the Rangers organization. He just recently turned 23 and is in the final year of a contract that earns him $2.1 million against the salary cap.

In 41 games this season, Kakko has only seven goals and four assists for 11 total points. Over his 280-game career, he’s notched 51 tallies and 58 helpers for 109 points. There is still a belief that he can elevate his game in the coming years and play like the second-overall pick he was chosen.

Some extra juggling may need to be done with the Rangers, but they also have vital prospects that the Penguins may be interested in.

As Western Conference teams like the Vancouver Canucks and Edmonton Oilers drop out, it’s prime time for division rivals to get in on the action.

Make sure you bookmark Inside the Penguins for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.

Penguins Lose Trade Partner for Jake Guentzel

Penguins Trading Jake Guentzel Inevitable

Two Penguins Forwards Likely Return from Injury

Penguins Preview: Superstar Matchup Coming

Penguins Turning to Young Forwards

• undefined
• undefined