LIGHTNING LAND GUENTZEL
The Tampa Bay Lightning acquired winger Jake Guentzel from the Carolina Hurricanes for a third-round draft pick in 2025.
What does it give the Tampa Bay Lightning
Things are never dull in Tampa! After clearing a bunch of salary during the second day of the draft, the Lightning have zeroed in on Guentzel being their next star addition. Guentzel knows how to play with elite players, spending most of his career riding shotgun with Sidney Crosby. If the Lightning get him signed, he should fit perfectly onto one of their top two lines and top power-play unit. It is a bittersweet moment for Lightning fans, as this move likely signals the end of the Steven Stamkos era.
What does it give the Carolina Hurricanes
The Hurricanes and Guentzel were reportedly having ongoing contract talks, but they never could find common ground. Getting a third-round draft pick is a great return for a player that was headed for free agency. In fact, it blew the return for Chris Tanev's signing rights out of the water. The 'Canes must now pivot to find another scoring winger, either in free agency or via trade. Carolina spent multiple assets to land Guentzel at the '24 trade deadline, so this must sting a little bit.
Fantasy impact
Guentzel is a two-time 40-goal scorer, so a third season of 40 goals is easily attainable if he signs with Tampa Bay–health permitting. He is a guy that every fantasy manager should want on their squad.
