Oilers Hit Huge Hurdle in Attempts To Trade For Jake Guentzel
According to various sources within the NHL, it’s widely known that the Edmonton Oilers are actively exploring options ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline, considering numerous players. They seem particularly interested in bolstering their defense and addressing some uncertainties in goal, but their main focus is securing a second-line right-winger. Among the potential candidates, Jake Guentzel from the Pittsburgh Penguins stands out as their primary target, as many insiders suggest. However, a significant complication has emerged.
In addition to the complexities of determining which assets to offer in return to the Penguins and ensuring Guentzel’s salary fits within the Oilers’ roster, a new development, as reported by Elliotte Friedman, has muddied the waters. According to Friedman’s recent column, teams are inquiring with Pittsburgh about the possibility of extending Guentzel’s contract before finalizing any trade deals. Essentially, these teams wish to gauge Guentzel’s interest in a long-term commitment before proceeding with trade negotiations.
This presents a major challenge for the Edmonton Oilers, as they cannot afford to sign Guentzel to a new contract. They view him solely as a short-term rental player. Consequently, if they find themselves competing against offers from teams prepared to secure Guentzel’s services for the long haul, the Oilers are at a significant disadvantage.
This dilemma becomes even more pronounced if multiple teams, like the Florida Panthers, are vying for Guentzel’s services. For instance, the Panthers possess several expiring contracts and the financial flexibility to offer Guentzel a lucrative long-term deal. Knowing his interest, they might be willing to part with valuable assets to secure his future with the team.
In contrast, the Oilers must be cautious not to overpay for a player who will likely depart after a few months. Sacrificing multiple assets for a short-term rental doesn’t align with their strategic objectives and risks putting them at a disadvantage in trade negotiations.
There are a couple of less probable options that GM Ken Holland could consider. Firstly, they could acquire Guentzel at full price, utilize him as a rental for the remainder of the season, and then attempt to trade his rights during the NHL Draft for a draft pick. Holland contemplated a similar strategy with Timo Meier last season, although it didn’t materialize as Meier ended up with the New Jersey Devils. In such a scenario, Holland might fetch a second or third-round pick in exchange for Guentzel’s rights
