NHL Rumors: Jake Guentzel Traded to Hurricanes, Penguins Acquire Michael Bunting

Penguins reportedly trading Jake Guentzel to Hurricanes for Michael Bunting and assets, ending his seven-year stint in Pittsburgh.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are parting ways with Jake Guentzel, as reports indicate a trade in the works that would send him to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for Michael Bunting and other assets. The potential deal has been a topic of discussion for some time, with Pittsburgh setting a high asking price for Guentzel, including multiple first-round picks or equivalent top prospects or roster players.

Guentzel, who has been with the Penguins for over seven seasons and played a key role in their 2017 Stanley Cup win, has been the subject of trade rumors as the team struggles to secure a playoff spot. With an expiring contract and impending free agency after the 2023-24 season, Guentzel's departure seemed inevitable.

The 29-year-old forward has been a standout player for the Penguins, tallying impressive numbers with 219 goals and 247 assists for 466 points in 503 games. His absence will undoubtedly be felt by the team, despite having star players like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin in the lineup.

Although Guentzel is currently on injured reserve, his addition to the Hurricanes roster could bolster their playoff aspirations. Carolina, sitting second in the Metropolitan Division and vying for the top spot alongside the New York Rangers, has been eyeing Guentzel as a potential game-changer to enhance their chances of making a deep playoff run.

Joining a talented Hurricanes lineup featuring players like Sebastian Aho, Andrei Svechnikov, Brent Burns, and Martin Necas, Guentzel's arrival could provide the team with the extra firepower needed to compete at the highest level. As the trade nears completion, fans eagerly anticipate seeing how Guentzel's presence will impact the Hurricanes' quest for a Stanley Cup title.

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