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In recent developments, the Vegas Golden Knights have reached out to the Pittsburgh Penguins regarding pending free agent winger Jake Guentzel, as reported by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman. With a requirement for wing players and available funds from their injury reserve, the Golden Knights have entered discussions for Guentzel’s services, along with several other interested teams mentioned by Friedman during the Headlines Segment of Hockey Night in Canada.
Guentzel, aged 29, currently stands as a pending unrestricted free agent, boasting 52 points, including 22 goals, for the season. Recognized for his prolific partnership with center Sidney Crosby, Guentzel has consistently displayed offensive prowess, tallying 36 goals in the previous season and 40 goals in the season before that. Despite his notable contributions, rumors surrounding Guentzel’s future in Pittsburgh persist, fueled by his expiring contract with an average annual value of $6 million.
Pittsburgh’s president of hockey operations and GM, Kyle Dubas, has hinted at the possibility of Guentzel not aligning with the team’s long-term plans, albeit a decision on his fate has been deferred until closer to the NHL trade deadline on March 8th. Dubas emphasized the importance of assessing the team’s strategy and evaluating their roster’s composition, particularly in light of the need for rejuvenation.
Financially, the Golden Knights appear equipped to pursue Guentzel, with approximately $6 million in salary cap space according to PuckPedia.com. However, the absence of their captain, Mark Stone, due to injury adds a layer of complexity to their roster considerations. Nonetheless, there remains speculation that Stone will return in time for the playoffs.
It’s worth noting that Guentzel possesses one Stanley Cup ring from his time with the Penguins in 2017, adding to his appeal as a sought-after asset in the NHL trade market.
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