2017 Stanley Cup Champion Winger Traded to the Lightning
Following another impressive playoff run with the Carolina Hurricanes, which saw Jake Guentzel score four goals, five assists, and nine points in 11 games last postseason, Guentzel was going to free agency as one of the top free-agent wingers looking to secure a long-term contract. Guentzel contributed significantly to the Hurricanes' playoff performance and has demonstrated that he can perform better in high-pressure situations, even though the club was ousted by the Rangers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Last season, Guentzel finished the season with 30 goals, 47 assists, and 77 points in 67 games played. Guentzel’s 30 goals in 2023–24, marked the fourth time in his career and the third season in a row that he has done it in a single season. Now, it has been reported that the Hurricanes have traded Guentzel to the Tampa Bay Lightning for a 2025 third-round pick. Since the Lightning acquired Guentzel before the start of free agency, which starts at noon on July 1st, tomorrow, they will now have the opportunity to give him an eighth year on his next deal.
The 29-year-old Guentzel attended the University of Nebraska Omaha for his college years from 2013 to 2016. Guentzel finished his three seasons with 40 goals, 79 assists, and 119 points. In his sophomore year, he led the Mavericks to their first-ever Frozen Four. Guentzel would choose to sign a three-year, entry-level deal with the Pittsburgh Penguins after finishing his junior season with the Mavericks. Guentzel would have little trouble transitioning to the professional game during his rookie season with the Penguins, as seen by his 13 goals, eight assists, and 21 points during the team's 2017 Stanley Cup Championship run. Guentzel's 13 goals throughout the postseason fell one short of the record, while his 21 points equaled the most by a rookie in a single postseason.
Guentzel has already recorded 227 goals, 264 assists, 491 points, and 49 power-play goals in 520 games throughout his eight years in the NHL. Guentzel is a constant danger on the ice thanks to his speed, hockey IQ, and finishing prowess. His postseason performances have cemented his status as a clutch player. Guentzel is positioned to be a game-changer for the Lightning with his track record of success and his ability to perform under pressure. The trading of Guentzel to the Lightning will surely be seen as a big move as the summer goes on, giving Tampa Bay a formidable offensive force as they look to succeed in 2024–25.
