The NHL trade deadline is March 8th, which less than two months away. As is custom, all eyes focus to players on expiring deals at the end of the season as the subject of potential trades especially on underperforming non-playoff teams. For the Penguins, that player is Jake Guentzel – who just happens to be finishing up the last year of his 5 year contract.
Rumors are swiling around top teams like Vancouver that may be targeting Guetzel at the deadline. The Penguins alledgedly would want a roster player, a first rounder, and possibly even a prospect back in return. This hypothetical return is substantial so Penguins fans and Penguins managment should certainly be asking the question, “Is it time to trade Guenzel?”
There is only one reason, and one reason only as to why the Penguins should trade Guentzel. Is Sidney Crosby hurt? If Sid gets hurt and shuts down for the season between now and March (knock on wood he remains healthy), by all means throw in the towel and trade Guentzel to the highest bidder.
However, as long as Sid is healthy, trading Guentzel is flat out ridiculous. Full stop.
In case you missed it, Sidney Crosby is having a Hart worthy season.
Sid, Guentzel, and Rust all combine for an elite NHL line.
Trading Guenzel now would likely torpedo one of the best seasons Sid has ever had. Who would bet against Sidney Crosby, especially if he’s going off at the current clip he is currently? The Penguins simply cannot do that to Crosby nor the city of Pittsburgh.
Outside of that, the Penguins currently sit just one point out of a playoff spot. Crosby, Malkin, Letang, and Karlsson are not going to get any younger. This is the best chance the Penguins will have at a run for the forseeable future, no matter how timeless Crosby continues to be. Even if Guentzel walks at the end of the year for nothing, keeping him now is worth everything. Pay attention Kyle – do it for the fans and keep Jake around.
The Morning Skate 
Yes but Canucks are going to trade Andrei Kuzmenko that would be massive mistake, Guentzel you know what you’re getting Kuzzy still is very raw and untap potential and I see him having higher ceiling than Jake. Toch put the time and work with him and Adam Foote, Sergei Gonchar.
Getting 39 last year is not one off and done he has more of lethal accurate shot than fellow teammate Brock Boeser.
I would trade Conor Garland and Hoglander before Kuzmenko Garland has energy and plays up-tempo but has no finish.
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