Penguins, Bruins, Canucks Discussing Huge 3-Way Blockbuster Trade

The Jake Guentzel sweepstakes might be the impetus for an impending massive three-team blockbuster, as reported by hockey insider Chris Johnson.

With the #canucks believed to be among those pursuing Jake Guentzel, word is they've had discussions about potentially flipping Elias Lindholm to the #bruins as part of the machinations to make it happen.

Nothing concrete in place at this time. Still lots of moving parts.

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) March 5, 2024

The Vancouver Canucks have been one of many teams trying to secure the services of Guentzel, the top star forward on the trade market as we head up to Friday's deadline. In this potential 3-way scenario, Vancouver would flip Elias Lindholm—who they just acquired from the Calgary Flames last month—to the Boston Bruins as part of the deal, while the Pittsburgh Penguins would be sending Guentzel to the Canucks.

The Bruins had been linked to Lindholm for much of the earlier part of the season, as essentially the perfect two-way center replacement for the retired Patrice Bergeron. But the Canucks won the bidding with Calgary, though the fit in Vancouver for Lindholm just hasn't been there thus far. Perhaps a move to Boston would be just what he needs. The 11-year veteran has six points in 14 games since joining the Canucks.

Vancouver, in this 3-team scenario, would add Guentzel, a seven-time 20+ goal scorer, who's been a point-a-game performer for many years in Pittsburgh. The Penguins have made it clear that the impending UFA will be dealt by Friday at 3pm, as the team attempts to get younger and move into the future. 

As Johnson notes, there are "a lot of moving parts" to these blockbuster discussions, and there's nothing concrete in place just yet. There's no word yet what the Bruins would be sending out or what other pieces would be involved.

But we'll be keeping a close eye on this potentially massive move.

Photo: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports