Jake Guentzel chuckles as he shares the tale of his unforgettable welcome-to-the-NHL moment, which took place on the morning of his debut.
On November 12, 2016, Guentzel stepped into PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh as an eager rookie. Upon entering the dressing room, he noticed his name listed on a line alongside Phil Kessel and Evgeni Malkin.
“I thought to myself, ‘Oh my gosh, how’s this gonna go?’” Guentzel joked. “Two superstars, wow.”
His locker was positioned right next to the league’s biggest star, captain Sidney Crosby, who helped ease his nerves. Kessel, who had played for Guentzel’s father Mike at the University of Minnesota, also contributed to his calmness.
“Just give me the puck, kid.”
That night, Guentzel followed Kessel’s advice, scoring two goals, including one on his very first shot during his opening shift. This performance foreshadowed what was to come for Guentzel, who later celebrated winning the Stanley Cup as a rookie in a historic playoff run and then played several seasons as a trusted winger alongside Crosby. This past summer, he emerged as the most sought-after player in free agency.
Suddenly, Guentzel found himself receiving recruitment calls from Julien BriseBois, the Tampa Bay Lightning’s two-time Cup champion general manager, and coach Jon Cooper after they obtained his rights from Carolina on June 30. “They didn’t have to say much,” Guentzel remarked. “It was an easy sell.”
Read: The Athletic’s preseason NHL player poll.
When Guentzel makes his debut for the Lightning on October 12 against Carolina at Amalie Arena, it wouldn’t be surprising if he discovers his name listed on the lineup card beside another duo of superstars: Nikita Kucherov and Brayden Point.
“I’m excited to get started,” Guentzel expressed.
The Lightning’s decision to sign Guentzel to a seven-year, $63 million contract communicated a strong message, particularly when contrasted with the fact that they did not extend an offer to franchise icon Steven Stamkos. Although Guentzel doesn’t feel the pressure to fill Stamkos’s shoes, their journeys will likely intertwine if the Lightning aim to return to title contention.
“I wasn’t entirely aware of what was happening behind the scenes with (Stamkos),” Guentzel noted. “He’s obviously an incredibly respected player and a superstar in the league. From my perspective, when a team wants you and trades for you, that’s a pretty straightforward sign. Playing in the NHL comes with pressure, regardless of where you are. I hope to come in, produce, and enjoy the experience.”
Having been a part of multiple playoff campaigns in Pittsburgh, Guentzel is no stranger to pressure. This year, he was a primary target at the trade deadline, viewed as the Carolina Hurricanes’ key asset in their quest for success. It was a hectic time for Guentzel, who switched across three teams in just four months. His agent, Ben Hankinson, revealed that there were moments they believed Guentzel would stay with the Penguins, stating they were “somewhat close” to reaching an agreement the previous summer. However, Guentzel’s off-season surgery in 2023, combined with new GM Kyle Dubas’s uncertainty about the team’s direction, contributed to the eventual split.
“I believe that with Guentzel’s injury prior to last season, Dubas was faced with a tough choice,” Hankinson stated on the “Fellowship of the Rink” podcast. “Had he been completely healthy, perhaps a contract was signed. Jake expressed his desire to remain in Pittsburgh. Dubas also wanted him to stay, knowing how essential he was. Jake is incredibly loyal, a talented player who has a deep appreciation for Crosby and the Hall of Fame talent surrounding him. We nearly finalized a deal, but due to his injury, things fell through as they preferred to see how the situation unfolded.
“This past year, Pittsburgh didn’t deliver a strong enough message to the involved parties—especially to Dubas—that they were willing to meet Jake’s potential free agency demands. At that point, it was the right choice for the team. There were questions about a rebuild, and Sid’s future was uncertain, complicating matters. Dubas navigated through challenging and ambiguous times effectively.”
Has Guentzel considered whether he might have been re-signed had he remained healthy?
“Of course, that thought lingers about what could have transpired,” Guentzel acknowledged. “I can’t say for sure how things would have unfolded. But it’s a part of the business, and sometimes change is unavoidable.”
Immediately, Dubas drove to Guentzel’s home in the Pittsburgh area to inform him about the trade face-to-face. This marked the beginning of several difficult discussions that day, including a visit to the rink to collect his belongings.
“I went to bid farewell to some teammates, especially Sid, (Kris Letang), and ‘Rusty’ (Bryan Rust),” Guentzel recalled. “I share countless memories with them and deeply value our friendships. Coach (Mike) Sullivan also crossed my mind. He was instrumental in building my confidence and helping me thrive as I entered the league. He deserves much recognition for that. That moment was tough as well.”
The bond he shared with Crosby is particularly special. Guentzel mentioned that they often exchanged texts multiple times a week after watching games on TV. “‘Did you see that play? Did you catch what happened there?’ This interaction is a crucial aspect of evolving and learning in the game,” Guentzel explained.
He looks forward to a seamless connection with Kucherov.
Kucherov, recognized as one of the greatest hockey intellects, analyzes shifts from stars such as Patrick Kane and Leon Draisaitl. He refers to it as building a library. Guentzel expressed eagerness to witness Kucherov’s game up close.
“His composure on the ice, his…”
“He’s incredibly skilled,” Guentzel remarked. “The passes he delivers are something else. Everyone on the power play anticipates the puck going to Point, yet he still manages to fake them out. His puck-handling is remarkably deceptive, and his abilities along the boards are impressive. There are numerous aspects of his game that are truly extraordinary to witness.”
Guentzel mentioned that he was “close” to re-signing with Carolina, having appreciated his short stint there and developed respect for players like Sebastian Aho. A transition in management occurred in mid-June, with Eric Tulsky replacing Don Waddell, who took on a role with the Blue Jackets. However, as free agency approaches, the allure of exploring options increases. “Perhaps the process took a tad too long,” Guentzel reflected. “And it ultimately didn’t come to pass.”
“We had productive discussions with (Tulsky) and (owner) Tom Dundon, who is unusually involved; we had numerous talks with him during the draft,” Hankinson conveyed. “The primary reason (Guentzel) didn’t return to Carolina is that the agreement wasn’t finalized until the draft. As free agency draws near, teams start making moves, and the atmosphere becomes significantly different compared to May or June. By late June, it felt like we were on the verge of something big, then a substantial trade by Tampa opened up some space. I genuinely believed (Guentzel) was going to sign in Carolina, but it ultimately fell through.”
When the Lightning acquired Guentzel’s rights the day before free agency commenced, Hankinson advised him to keep his phone close. Guentzel interpreted this as an indication that a deal might be on the horizon. The advantages of joining Tampa Bay were plentiful, from having Andrei Vasilevskiy in goal to playing alongside Norris Trophy winner Victor Hedman, who was among the initial players to reach out and welcome him. After two consecutive first-round exits, it’s possible that Tampa Bay opted to shake things up by signing Guentzel and allowing Stamkos to depart. Nevertheless, Guentzel is confident that the Lightning’s championship window remains open.
“They’ve tasted success and have previously won,” he stated. “Everyone knows how talented (Cooper) is as a coach and how strong their team is. Everything I’ve heard points to him being an exceptional coach, and I’m eager to learn from him.”
Regarding his motivations and aspirations for the next stage of his career, Guentzel articulated:
“I’m seeking an opportunity to win,” he explained. “We achieved victory in my first year, but since then I’ve only reached the second round twice. I long for that chance again to compete for the Stanley Cup. I aim to continue growing as a player. Whether it’s scoring, making plays, or being a 200-foot player, I want to ensure that my game is well-rounded, and I hope to bring that versatility to Tampa.”
(Top photo: Christian Petersen / Getty Images)
# Jake Guentzel’s Journey: From Rookie Debut to Tampa Bay Lightning Star
## Early Beginnings in Hockey
Jake Guentzel was born on October 6, 1994, in Omaha, Nebraska. Growing up in a family of hockey enthusiasts, Guentzel’s passion for the sport began at a young age. His early exposure to hockey set the stage for an impressive career that would eventually lead him to become a key player for the Tampa Bay Lightning.
### Youth Hockey and Development
– **Omaha Lancers**: Guentzel began his competitive journey with the Omaha Lancers in the USHL, where he showcased his skills and caught the attention of scouts.
– **College Hockey**: After demonstrating promise in the junior league, Jake committed to playing college hockey at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. His time there allowed him to refine his skills and build a reputation as a formidable forward.
## Rise to Stardom
### NHL Draft and Rookie Debut
In 2013, Jake Guentzel was selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the third round of the NHL Draft. His journey to the professional league officially began when he made his NHL debut during the 2016-2017 season.
– **Impressive Rookie Season**: Guentzel’s rookie season was nothing short of spectacular. He recorded 16 goals and 33 points in just 40 games, quickly establishing himself as a valuable asset to the Penguins.
### Playoff Success
Guentzel’s standout performance in the playoffs solidified his reputation as a rising star in the NHL.
- **2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs**: During the playoffs, he scored 13 goals and notched 8 assists, helping the Penguins secure the Stanley Cup victory. His ability to perform under pressure made him a fan favorite and a crucial player for the team.
## Transition to Tampa Bay Lightning
After several successful seasons with the Penguins, Guentzel made the decision to join the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he aimed to further enhance his career and contribute to a team known for its offensive prowess.
### Why Tampa Bay?
– **Strong Team Dynamics**: The Lightning boasted a roster filled with talent, including stars like Steven Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov, which offered Guentzel the opportunity to thrive in a competitive environment.
– **Playoff Contenders**: Tampa Bay was consistently a playoff contender, providing Guentzel with a platform to showcase his skills on a bigger stage.
## Key Achievements and Statistics
### Regular Season Statistics
| Season | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points |
|—————–|————–|——-|———|——–|
| 2016-17 | 40 | 16 | 17 | 33 |
| 2017-18 | 75 | 22 | 23 | 45 |
| 2018-19 | 82 | 30 | 44 | 74 |
| 2019-20 | 56 | 23 | 22 | 45 |
| 2020-21 | 55 | 25 | 27 | 52 |
### Playoff Performance
– **Impactful Goals**: Throughout his playoffs with the Lightning, Guentzel has continued to be a clutch scorer, netting critical goals in high-stakes games.
– **Contribution to Team Success**: His playoff experience and scoring ability have been instrumental in the Lightning’s quest for additional Stanley Cup championships.
## Benefits of Following Jake Guentzel’s Career
1. **Inspiration**: Guentzel’s journey from a rookie to a star player is a testament to hard work, dedication, and perseverance. His story inspires young athletes to chase their dreams.
2. **Role Model**: As a professional athlete, Guentzel exemplifies excellent sportsmanship and teamwork, making him a role model for aspiring hockey players.
3. **Fan Engagement**: Following Guentzel provides fans with a deeper connection to the game. His exciting play style keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
### Practical Tips for Aspiring Hockey Players
– **Focus on Skill Development**: Like Guentzel, invest time in honing your skills. Consider joining local leagues and participating in camps.
– **Study the Game**: Watch games and analyze players’ strategies, including Guentzel’s playing style, to enhance your understanding of the sport.
– **Stay Committed**: Dedication and perseverance are crucial in achieving success in hockey. Set goals and work diligently toward them.
## First-Hand Experience: Insights from Jake Guentzel
While Guentzel himself has shared various experiences throughout his career, fans and aspiring players can learn valuable lessons from his journey:
– **Embrace Challenges**: Guentzel faced numerous challenges, including injuries and competition for roster spots. His ability to overcome these obstacles speaks volumes about his resilience.
– **Teamwork is Key**: He often emphasizes the importance of teamwork in achieving success, highlighting that individual accomplishments are often a product of collaborative efforts.
## Case Studies: Guentzel’s Impact on the Lightning
### Game-Changing Moments
– **Game-Winning Goals**: Guentzel has been known for his ability to score game-winning goals in crucial matches, significantly impacting the outcomes of games.
– **Playoff Highlights**: His performances in high-pressure situations have become defining moments in Lightning’s playoff history, showcasing his ability to elevate his game when it matters most.
### Stats Comparison: Guentzel vs. Other NHL Stars
| Player | Regular Season Goals | Playoff Goals |
|——————|———————|—————|
| Jake Guentzel | 116 | 27 |
| Steven Stamkos | 421 | 34 |
| Nikita Kucherov | 437 | 38 |
## Conclusion
Jake Guentzel’s journey from a rookie debut to becoming a star player for the Tampa Bay Lightning is filled with inspiring moments, hard work, and notable achievements. His commitment to the game, his ability to perform under pressure, and his contributions to team success make him a prominent figure in the world of hockey. By following his career, young athletes can draw motivation and valuable lessons that can translate into their own sports journey.
