The Tampa Bay Lightning have taken a significant step in securing their future by reaching an agreement in principle with winger Jake Guentzel on a new seven-year contract. Set to be formally announced on Monday, this acquisition is poised to enhance Tampa Bay's offensive capabilities, underscoring their commitment to remaining one of the NHL’s elite teams.
Guentzel, 29, arrives in Tampa Bay following an acquisition from the Carolina Hurricanes, which saw the Lightning part with a 2025 third-round draft pick. The winger boasts an impressive resume, with four seasons of 30 goals or more already under his belt. Last season, he notched 30 goals across 67 games, split between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Hurricanes.
A Proven Winner
Guentzel's pedigree includes winning a Stanley Cup with the Penguins in 2017, adding a layer of championship experience to a Lightning roster that has been marked by consistent competitiveness. At 29, he still has several prime years ahead of him, making the length of the contract a calculated move by general manager Julien BriseBois.
Strategic Moves
In preparation for this significant addition, the Lightning made notable moves during the NHL Draft. Defenseman Mikhail Sergachev was traded to Utah, freeing up an average annual value of $8.5 million. Additionally, forward Tanner Jeannot was sent to the Los Angeles Kings, offloading a contract worth $2.665 million annually. These decisions created the necessary cap space to negotiate with Guentzel before he hit the unrestricted free agent market.
BriseBois laid out the team’s approach clearly: "It's in the best interest of our organization to explore all options in the coming days, whether it be via trades or by getting into free agency. We have this cap space. We can allocate it in different ways by either getting volume or quality. I don't know yet how we're going to do that. I know the priority is going to be to address our forward group."
Looking to the Future
With Guentzel in the fold, the Lightning have addressed a critical need in their forward group. The winger is expected to play left wing, taking over the spot previously occupied by veteran star Steven Stamkos, who could become the most sought-after forward on the free-agent market this season. Guentzel’s youth—he is four years younger than Stamkos—adds a layer of strategic foresight to the acquisition, ensuring sustained productivity in the Lightning's top line.
The expected trio of Guentzel on left wing, Brayden Point at center, and Nikita Kucherov on right wing promises to be a formidable force. Each player brings a unique set of skills and a track record of scoring, making this line one of the most potent in the league.
A Commitment to Winning
The Lightning’s front office, already known for their strategic acumen, has been hard at work to ensure the team remains in a win-now mode. Their recent maneuvers, including the addition of Guentzel, reinforce this commitment. By bolstering their offensive firepower, they are setting the stage for sustained success in the challenging and competitive landscape of the NHL.
The acquisition of Guentzel is more than just a new contract; it’s a statement of intent. Tampa Bay is not merely satisfied with past successes but is continually striving to be a competitive force in the league. As the official announcement looms, the hockey world will be watching closely to see how this significant move plays out on the ice.