Report: Jake Guentzel Drawing Trade Interest From Vancouver Canucks
Jake Guentzel is in the midst of a fine contract year. However, the Pittsburgh Penguins are not enjoying themselves as much. They are currently sixth in the Metro and on the outside looking in for the playoffs. If things don’t turn around, Kyle Dubas will have to consider trading him, and one of the teams reportedly sniffing around are the Vancouver Canucks.
In the latest 32 Thoughts podcast, Elliotte Friedman and Jeff Marek discussed the star winger’s availability. The way they put it, if he’s “available,” the Canucks, led by former Pittsburgh executive Jim Rutherford, will be interested.
With 46 points in 42 games, the Omaha, Neb., native is getting a bag this Summer, by the Pens or otherwise. However, Dubas is stupid if he doesn’t talk to his predecessor. The first name I would ask for in return is Andrei Kuzmenko. After putting up 39 goals and 74 points last year, the Russian winger has found himself in Rick Tocchet‘s doghouse.
At face value, it looks like a fair swap with the Penguins probably asking for some draft picks as well. Guentzel’s $6 million expiring cap hit lines up well with Kuzmenko’s $5.5 million for this season and next.
Is He The Missing Piece?
The Canucks have been one of the most fun teams to watch in the NHL this year. They currently have the most points and goals scored out of anyone, and you find a way to add another weapon in Guentzel, then it really could be a special year in British Columbia.
He would be a great fit on the second line alongside former Penguin Teddy Blueger and Conor Garland. Furthermore, that powerplay would be even more disgusting. It already features Brock Boeser, Elias Pettersson and Norris-frontrunner Quinn Hughes. That group has a chance of being even more dangerous.
Yes, a lot still needs to be done. Pettersson needs an extension because losing him is not out of the question. Though going all-in and making a move like this should make him want to stay, right? Especially if a deep playoff run accompanies it?
Jake Guentzel could potentially be a man in demand. The Penguins have a tough decision to make with the Vancouver Canucks potentially at the front of the line.
