A couple of weeks ago, in response to mounting rumors surrounding a potential Jake Guentzel trade, Pittsburgh Penguins’ General Manager, Kyle Dubas, attempted to clarify the situation. Despite recent comments from Guentzel’s agent, Ben Hankinson, suggesting things could get interesting between the two sides, Dubas emphasized that the Penguins are not actively shopping the talented forward.

Well, things went and got interesting. First, TSN’s Chris Johnston suggested teams were interested in Guentzel. Among them are the Edmonton Oilers. Then, Nick Kypreos reported that Guentzel turned down a lucrative contract offer from the Penguins.

Dubas addressed the speculation on his biweekly radio program, asserting, “We haven’t had any discussions with teams about Jake — anything out there is pure speculation.” He attributed the rumors to misconceptions stemming from Hankinson’s earlier remarks, emphasizing the agent’s concern about the team’s future and posting cryptic messages about Guentzel’s current contract situation.

Regarding Hankinson’s comment that “it could get ugly,” Dubas clarified that it was likely referring to potential roster changes if the Penguins continue to struggle rather than a reflection of Guentzel’s feelings about the team or ongoing negotiations. Speculation was that Dubas would use the All-Star break to assess his team’s situation and potentially formulate a trade deadline plan. “I didn’t take it as offensive or as anything other than Ben trying to do right by his client,” Dubas stated.

Are the Penguins Still Taking the Patient Approach? Or, is a Guentzel Trade on the Horizon?

Dubas has maintained a measured approach, stating, “We’ll continue to go through the season here, and I’ll continue to evaluate where we’re at, and either after the All-Star break or after the season we’ll do what’s best for everybody — best for the Penguins, best for Jake, and we’ll determine that together.” With interest picking up with teams and with just over a month until the deadline, time is running out.

Acknowledging the team’s recent struggles as they approach the trade deadline, Dubas hinted at the possibility of considering trade offers for Guentzel. However, he also expressed an intention to discuss a contract extension with Guentzel, ensuring all options are explored. If he’s done that and Guentzel has declined, the organization is at a crossroads. Keep the player and know he could walk? Or, trade the player and get a huge haul, potentially more than the returns garnered by the Calgary Flames for Elias Lindholm, and the Montreal Canadiens for Sean Monahan?

Did Guentzel Turn Down That Much Money?

The deal rumored to have been offered to Guentzel was in the ballpark of $50 million. That’s around $8.3 million per season and many insiders wonder how accurate that report is. It seems like a good chunk of money to walk away from if the plan is to stay in Pittsburgh.

But, with no deal currently in place, speculations arise about the player’s future, raising the prospect of other teams, such as the Oilers, New York Rangers, Vegas Golden Knights, or Colorado Avalanche, making a move for Guentzel. He’s the ideal winger for a playoff run.

Guentzel’s outstanding performance this season, with 22 goals and 27 assists in 46 games, adds to the complexity of the situation. The price will be high, but there’s got to be at least one team willing to pay it.

Next: Another Top NHL Center Traded Ahead of Deadline: Sean Monahan Goes to Jets