Jake Guentzel’s tenure with the Pittsburgh Penguins appears to have come to an end as reports suggest the team is finalizing a trade with the Carolina Hurricanes. According to Greg Wyshynski of ESPN, the deal is expected to involve Guentzel heading to Carolina in exchange for Michael Bunting and additional assets.
Rumors of a potential trade had been circulating for some time, with multiple sources indicating that a deal was close. Mike DeFabo and Pierre LeBrun were among those reporting on the imminent trade, with indications that Bunting would be part of the package heading back to Pittsburgh.
The trade comes amid a challenging season for the Penguins, who have struggled to compete for a playoff spot, currently sitting sixth in the Metropolitan Division with a 24-28-8 record. Guentzel’s impending free agency at the end of the season also made him a candidate for a move, with Pittsburgh reportedly seeking significant assets in return.
Breaking: The Carolina Hurricanes are expected to complete a trade for Pittsburgh Penguins winger Jake Guentzel on Thursday night, a source told @wyshynski.
Carolina forward Michael Bunting is expected to be part of the package going back to Pittsburgh. pic.twitter.com/mIzoZgL97H
— ESPN (@espn) March 8, 2024
A key figure for the Penguins over the past seven-and-a-half seasons, Guentzel has been a consistent performer, tallying 466 points in 503 games and playing a pivotal role in the team’s 2017 Stanley Cup victory. Despite his contributions, Pittsburgh will feel his absence keenly as they look to maintain competitiveness in a tough division.
In the midst of trade speculation, Guentzel has continued to produce on the ice, registering 52 points in 50 games this season. However, his availability for his new team may be delayed as he is currently on injured reserve.
Hurricanes have been pushing hard with Pittsburgh on Guentzel. It would make sense that Bunting would be part of that package if Carolina can get a deal with the Penguins across the finish line. https://t.co/XMac3zWHxt
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) March 7, 2024
For the Hurricanes, acquiring Guentzel represents a significant addition to their roster as they aim to strengthen their position in the playoff race. With a talented lineup already featuring the likes of Sebastian Aho and Andrei Svechnikov, Carolina will be hoping that Guentzel’s arrival can boost their chances of making a deep postseason run.
Sitting second in the Metropolitan Division with a 36-19-6 record, the Hurricanes remain in contention for the top spot alongside the New York Rangers. Adding Guentzel to their lineup could be the catalyst they need to challenge for the division title and make a serious push for the Stanley Cup.
