The Tampa Bay Lightning made a splash this offseason by signing the talented winger Jake Guentzel. The 29-year-old sniper is coming off a solid season, notching 77 points in just 67 games split between Pittsburgh and Carolina. Now, with a fresh start in Tampa Bay, Guentzel’s fantasy hockey outlook is brighter than ever.
Guentzel’s Scoring Potential with Tampa Bay: Power-Play Dynamo
Guentzel’s arrival in Tampa instantly elevates the Lightning’s already potent power play. He’ll likely find himself on the top unit alongside superstars Nikita Kucherov, Brayden Point, Victor Hedman, and Brandon Hagel. This combination of skill and playmaking ability is a fantasy hockey manager’s dream.
Playing with Kucherov and Point, two of the league’s most elite passers, Guentzel should see a significant increase in scoring chances. His quick release and accuracy around the net make him a prime target for one-timers and deflections. Moreover, Hedman’s ability to quarterback the power play from the point will open up lanes for Guentzel to operate in the slot.
Guentzel Projected Points, Goals, and Assists
While Guentzel has consistently produced around a point-per-game pace throughout his career, his potential in Tampa’s high-octane offense is even higher. Considering his new linemates and power-play opportunities, I project Guentzel to have a career year.
Here are my projections for Jake Guentzel in the 2024-2025 season:
- Goals: 45
- Assists: 55
- Total Points: 100
These numbers are ambitious, but I believe they are attainable. Guentzel’s skill set perfectly complements Tampa Bay’s style of play. He’s a natural goal scorer who can also create opportunities for his linemates.
Fantasy Draft Strategy
In fantasy drafts, Guentzel’s average draft position (ADP) will likely be in the early to mid-rounds. Don’t hesitate to reach for him a round or two earlier, especially in points-only leagues. The potential for a 100-point season is too enticing to pass up.
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