Letting him walk this summer for nothing is a Hextall-level mistake. I don't disagree with your points on re-signing him, but, I don't think this team is competitive beyond next year at best. So what's the point? Worse, it sounds like his agent has just said they'll wait until summer. That's a worst case scenario for the Penguins.KG wrote: ↑Sat Jan 06, 2024 2:16 pm I really don't see the Pens dealing Jake. They are still a win now team ( or at least they're suppose to be). I see them signing him. 40 goal scorers don't grow on trees. He fits like a glove with Sid ( who we want to retire a Pen). He's 29, not 36. He has plenty of years ahead of him. They had no problem giving Rakell a 6 year deal (who is 1 year older than Jake).
I get that the prospect cupboards are bare. But as long as Sid is here they owe it to him to remain competitive. Easier said than done also that we can just replace Jake in UFA. Pens window is all but shut, why would a strong UFA come here? I would sign Jake and kick the can down the road a few more seasons. Maybe look to move Rust in the off-season and replenish some assets.
Trade Smith for a different top 6 option or a pick and use that money to sign someone etc. Point is I don't see them blowing it up and moving their 2nd best forward.
Big game of chicken, and if Guentzel decides that some other team can give him more money OR some other team is better equipped to get him into the playoffs and a stronger chance of winning another Cup...it doesn't matter what the Penguins viewpoint is on resigning him.
Again, losing Guentzel for zero assets is a Hextall-level mistake. If Hankinson won't negotiate at all before the trade deadline, it's incredibly stupid not to attempt to move him re-sign him this summer.