The Chicago Blackhawks are now considering a major move. Blackhawks want to pair Connor Bedard with Hurricanes star Jake Guentzel. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman discussed this on the “32 Thoughts” podcast.
“It sounds like he’s [Guentzel] available for a mid-round pick,” Friedman said. “Carolina’s let everybody know that if you want to trade for his rights, it’s possible for a mid-round pick.”
Guentzel signed a five-year, $30 million contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins on Dec. 27, 2018. David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period reported earlier that Guentzel is likely to test free agency on July 1.
“Confirmed by separate sources over the weekend,” Pagnotta said, “the Hurricanes have had discussions with Guentzel and his camp, led by agent Ben Hankinson, and the initial word is he ‘probably goes to July 1.'”
Guentzel’s previous contract earned him $6 million AAV. His next deal may top $8 million AAV. In the last 17 regular-season games with Carolina, Guentzel scored 25 points including eight goals. His postseason contributions were equally impressive as he ranked third on the team with nine points in 11 games.
San Jose seems far from acquiring Guentzel. Meanwhile, Chicago appears eager to move things along.
“I did have a couple of people say to me, San Jose is a long way away still.” Friedman further said. “When it comes to Chicago, they were like at the beginning, and then someone said to me Chicago started to make noises like they’d like to move things along a little bit here, and I don’t think it’s impossible that Chicago is considering this.”
The Blackhawks’ interest in pairing Bedard with Guentzel is indeed hopeful. An experienced forward like Guentzel can provide Bedard with the skilled coordination to turn things around in Bedard’s sophomore year.
As July 1 approaches, the situation with Guentzel will likely develop soon if the Hurricanes don’t have other plans.