The Canadiens involved in a trade for a star forward as early as tomorrow? Jake Guentzel is entirely possible

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David St-Jean
March 5, 2024 (11:04 PM)

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Despite efforts made during the summer and all the complexity surrounding Erik Karlsson's arrival in Pittsburgh, the Penguins seem to be at a crossroads. The veterans are fatigued, and unless there's a surprise, they won't make the playoffs this year.

It's safe to say: they persisted for too long, and they missed their shot. A reconstruction is necessary in Pittsburgh, and it will be long and painful.

Undoubtedly, Jake Guentzel will leave by Friday, as he becomes a free agent this summer and has no intention of re-signing there.

"Sources say the Penguins are hoping to have a trade in place for Jake Guentzel by tomorrow evening. Pittsburgh is open to quality over quantity in return, but would like a 1st, young NHL player, plus prospects. Flexibility comes in the calibre of prospect or roster player." - Darren Dreger

What's entirely twisted in this whole story is the rumor that he might go to Vancouver, and the newly acquired player there, Elias Lindholm, would head to Boston.

"With the #canucks believed to be among those pursuing Jake Guentzel, word is they've had discussions about potentially flipping Elias Lindholm to the #bruins as part of the machinations to make it happen.

Nothing concrete in place at this time. Still lots of moving parts." - Chris Johnston

But why would the Canadiens be involved? As a third team for salary retention. Kent Hughes has about 5 million in cap space, and he could get a prospect or a pick to take on some of Guentzel's contract by the end of the season.

"Montreal Canadiens. Projected cap space: $5.65 million. Remaining retention slots: 1. The Habs are still monitoring market prices on the third-party brokerage game (third team involved in a trade to retain salary). You can bet they'll be in the mix, especially if Jake Allen stays." - Via Frank Seravalli

Source: Marqueur