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Report: Jake Guentzel Rejects Contract Offer From Penguins

Originally posted on Pittsburgh Penguins on SI
By Nick Horwat | Last updated Feb 2, 2024 7:50 AM ET

PITTSBURGH – Heading into the 2023-24 season, it was well known a lot of focus around the Pittsburgh Penguins would be on Jake Guentzel. Coming off offseason ankle surgery, Guentzel was hitting the final year of his contract with no conversations opened about an extension.

No contract talks plus a struggling Penguins team, Guentzel has become a hot name around the trade deadline. The Penguins likely want to keep around one of their top scorers, but it seems if a new deal isn’t on the horizon, Kyle Dubas won’t be afraid to pull the trigger.

According to Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos, there was an offer on the table for Guentzel, but obviously pen was not put to paper.

“It’s my understanding that there may have been something offered to him in the ballpark of $50 million,” Kypreos said. “And as of now he’s not signed. Let’s just put it that way.”

What should the #Penguins do with Jake Guentzel?@frank_seravalli discusses their options for the forward on an expiring deal with @RealKyper & @jtbourne. #LetsGoPens

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Kypreos noted that the extension would look like a six-year deal worth $8.5 million annually. A six-year deal starting next year would keep Guentzel in Pittsburgh until he is 36-years-old.

The direction of the Penguins and future of Guentzel are still unclear, but this month of February could see massive changes.

Guentzel has been a bright spot for the Penguins this year despite not playing any preseason games and barely participating in training camp. In 46 games played this season, Guentzel has notched 22 goals and 27 assists for 49 points.

This article first appeared on Pittsburgh Penguins on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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