Could the Pittsburgh Penguins find Jake Guentzel's name wrapped up in trade rumors this summer?

It isn’t the most ideal situation, but according to the Athletic, Pittsburgh Penguins forward Jake Guentzel could become a top trade candidate this summer.

For local fans, this doesn’t seem likely, but there are plenty of ‘far-fetched’ rumors surrounding the Penguins, why not discuss another?

Guentzel had a self proclaimed ‘down year,’ yet was still one of the most productive players on the team.

The Penguins, however, are without a general manager after missing the postseason for the first time since 2006 and could use some retooling with their roster.

Among any forward on the roster, Guetnzel might be the most attractive, and that includes Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.

The Athletic suggests that if Guentzel doesn’t receive a contract extension this offseason his name could spill into the rumor mill.

Guentzel has a year remaining on his deal, but is allowed to sign an extension once the new contract year starts in the NHL.

A first order of business for a new general manager should be to hand a contract offer to Guentzel before things get out of hand.

Guentzel is still on the younger side and it’s possible to sign him to an affordable deal after the year he just had.

36 goals and 37 assists are good numbers, but not up to Guentzel’s standards.

On the flip side, a trade involving Guentzel could bring a lot back to Pittsburgh; he has a modified no-trade clause but it wouldn’t be outrageous to hear what teams are willing to offer.

The Athletic also listed Jeff Petry No. 11 in their top 30 potential trade candidates for this offseason; Mikael Granlnud was listed at 20.

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