The NHL trade rumor mill is swirling with reports that the Montreal Canadiens and Pittsburgh Penguins are engaged in serious discussions surrounding star winger Jake Guentzel.
The proposed deal would see the Canadiens ship young defenseman Jordan Harris, top prospect Joshua Roy, and Winnipeg’s 2024 first-round pick (owned by Montreal) to Pittsburgh in exchange for Guentzel and defenseman Ryan Graves.
Montreal Canadiens & Pittsburgh Penguins: A Trade in the Making?
This potential trade carries significant implications for both franchises. The Canadiens, seeking a return to playoff form, believe that adding a proven scorer like Guentzel provides the perfect veteran presence to guide their young core. Guentzel, an elite goal scorer, would immediately slot in as a top-line force alongside Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield. However, this deal hinges on Guentzel’s willingness to sign a contract extension in Montreal.
For the Penguins, the potential return signals a shift towards a retooling phase. GM Kyle Dubas recognizes the need to start collecting assets and draft picks as the Penguins prepare for life after the Crosby, Malkin, and Letang era. Harris is a promising young defenseman, Joshua Roy projects as a potential top-six forward, and an additional first-rounder is extremely valuable currency on the trade market. If Guentzel is unwilling to commit long-term in Montreal, moving him becomes a savvy decision for Pittsburgh.
This proposed blockbuster highlights the delicate balance teams must strike between contending and rebuilding in the NHL. Will the Canadiens make a bold move to accelerate their timeline? Will the Penguins start their retooling in earnest? Stay tuned as this intriguing trade saga unfolds.
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Aren’t Guentzel and Graves UFAs? Couldn’t they walk away and go wherever they want? Doesn’t make sense to me unless they sign extensions. The Habs don’t need them this year.