As the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline approaches, several players are in the spotlight for potential moves. Let’s take a look at some notable candidates
Jake Guentzel
- Position: Left Wing
- Team: Pittsburgh Penguins
- Contract Status: In the final season of a five-year contract
- Injury Status: Currently on long-term injured reserve due to an upper-body injury
- Season Stats (2023): 52 points (22 goals and 30 assists) in 50 games
- Notable Accomplishments: Stanley Cup winner
- Trade Speculation: Could be available for trade by the Penguins before the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline
- Potential Suitors: Edmonton Oilers, Colorado Avalanche
- Team Strategy: Penguins’ management considering balancing veteran presence with a younger lineup
Jake Guentzel, who plays left wing for the Pittsburgh Penguins, could be available for trade. The Penguins have seven games remaining before the trade deadline, which is on March 8 at 3 p.m. ET. They are seven points behind the Tampa Bay Lightning for the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
Guentzel’s five-year contract is coming to an end this season. He is currently on long-term injured reserve due to an upper-body injury sustained on February 14. He has been a key contributor with 52 points (22 goals and 30 assists) in 50 games this season second only to his linemate Sidney Crosby.
The Penguins’ president of hockey operations and general manager Kyle Dubas mentioned that trading Guentzel could add youth to a roster with an average age of 30.8, making it the oldest in the NHL. While recognizing Guentzel’s value as a teammate and Stanley Cup winner Dubas emphasized balancing veteran presence with a younger lineup.
Jacob Markstrom
- Position: Goaltender
- Team: Calgary Flames
- Contract Status: Signed through the 2025-26 season with an average annual value (AAV) of $6 million
- No-Movement Clause: Holds a full no-movement clause
- Trade Rumors: Subject of trade rumors; New Jersey Devils have expressed interest
- Performance: Having a strong season
- Immediate Future: Expected to remain with the Flames at the trade deadline
Markstrom is signed through the 2025-26 season with an average annual value (AAV) of $6 million. He holds a full no-movement clause, which means he has control over any potential trade. The New Jersey Devils have expressed interest in acquiring Markstrom. The package offered by the Devils must align with the Flames’ requirements and Markstrom’s approval. Markstrom has a strong season, which could make his trade value high. The Flames need to weigh their options, considering both the present and long-term future of their goaltending.
Read More:
2024 NHL Trade Deadline Tracker Update: Predictions, Rumors, Speculations and Players be Traded