Penguins Rumors: 3 Teams Linked To Jake Guentzel If Put On Trade Block

Adam Proteau of The Hockey News has recently highlighted three potential destinations for Pittsburgh Penguins' winger Jake Guentzel in the event that he becomes available for trade before the March 8 deadline.

Guentzel, currently 29 years old and enjoying a standout season, has found himself at the center of trade speculation due to the Penguins' struggles and his pending unrestricted free agency.

Proteau's analysis points to the Seattle Kraken as one possible landing spot for Guentzel.

The Kraken, in their inaugural season, have shown improvement but lack a true offensive star.

Guentzel's scoring ability and Stanley Cup experience could provide the offensive boost they need to solidify their position in the standings.

So far this season, the 29-year-old has scored 18 goals and 43 total points across 38 games played.

Pittsburgh goal!

Scored by Jake Guentzel with 01:06 remaining in the 2nd period.

Assisted by Sidney Crosby and Rickard Rakell.

Pittsburgh: 3
Washington: 4#WSHvsPIT #LetsGoPens #ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/lb4qGBfTSC

— NHL Goals (@nhl_goal_bot) January 3, 2024

The Colorado Avalanche also emerge as a potential destination.

With their captain Gabriel Landeskog sidelined due to injury, the Avalanche have cap space to spare and could see Guentzel as a valuable addition to their forward lines, whether as a rental or a long-term asset.

Over his eight-year career, spent entirely in Pittsburgh, Guentzel has amassed 215 goals and 457 total points across 491 games played.

Lastly, Proteau suggests that the New York Islanders, under the leadership of GM Lou Lamoriello, could be a compelling suitor for Guentzel.

While the Islanders have a solid core, an offensive boost might be necessary to compete in the competitive Metropolitan Division.

Lamoriello's history of retaining players long-term could make the Islanders an attractive destination for Guentzel, potentially leading to a contract extension as part of any trade deal.

He's a former third-round pick (77th overall) by the Penguins in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. Photo Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports