In the latest twist of the ongoing Jake Guentzel trade saga, potential suitors from within the Pittsburgh Penguins’ division have emerged, possibly signaling the climax of negotiations. Amidst the predominant focus on Western Conference teams like the Vegas Golden Knights and Vancouver Canucks in NHL trade discussions, attention has shifted to Metropolitan Division rivals, particularly the New York Rangers and the Carolina Hurricanes.
Both the Rangers and Hurricanes boast promising young talent that could entice the Penguins. Moreover, they recognize the significant impact acquiring Guentzel could have on their playoff prospects, not only within the division but potentially in the broader Eastern Conference arena. This has set the stage for a potential bidding war.
Speculation arose on Tuesday that Penguins’ President of Hockey Operations and GM Kyle Dubas aimed to finalize a deal by Wednesday night, but as of Thursday, trade talks have intensified with some variations in the players mentioned.
Pittsburgh Hockey Now refrains from echoing reports of teams being “out” of negotiations, recalling instances where former GM Jim Rutherford dismissed deals only to eventually seal them.
With the NHL trade deadline frenzy intensifying, no clear frontrunner has emerged, and negotiations remain ongoing. The asking price for Guentzel appears steep, typically involving a first-round pick along with prospects or young NHL players.
The New York Rangers, engaged in a competitive battle for divisional and conference supremacy, haven’t hoisted the Stanley Cup since 1994. Despite possessing strength in their forward lines, including top-six left-wingers Chris Kreider and Artemi Panarin, they could still see value in acquiring Guentzel. Such a move could potentially rearrange their lineup, creating space for emerging talents like Will Cuylle or even former first-overall pick Alexis Lafreniere.
Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes, despite their consistent contention, have struggled to make a deep playoff run since their 2006 Stanley Cup victory. With a surplus of defensive prospects and depth, they could offer intriguing assets in exchange for Guentzel. Players like Alexander Nikishin and Scott Morrow, along with established NHL talent like Seth Jarvis, present compelling options for the Penguins.
Ultimately, while Dubas may not secure a player of Lafreniere’s caliber from the Rangers or find an immediate fit like Jarvis from the Hurricanes, the depth and potential talent within these teams offer enticing possibilities for a mutually beneficial trade.