Hurricanes Rumors: Jake Guentzel Likely to Hit Market

Jake Guentzel is one of the top free agents heading into the 2024 NHL Offseason. The Carolina Hurricanes, naturally, are hoping to get him re-signed this offseason, but it is certainly not set in stone at this juncture that this will occur.

According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, sources have informed that Guentzel "probably goes to July 1" and will test the market. However, he also noted that Guentzel has not shut the door on re-signing with the Hurricanes even with him likely hitting the market this summer.

With Guentzel being one of the best players from this year's free agency class, it would be understandable if he decided to listen to offers from other clubs in addition to the Hurricanes. At 29 years old, he is right in his prime, and this is his ultimate chance to get the biggest deal possible.

Guentzel is coming off of an excellent contract year, as he had 30 goals to go along with 77 points in 67 games. He also added four goals to go along with nine points and a plus-4 rating in 11 playoff games. As a result of this, he is gearing up for a big payday.

It will now be very interesting to see what happens with Guentzel from here. If he does in fact hit the free agent market on July 1, the Hurricanes, Pittsburgh Penguins, Vancouver Canucks, Chicago Blackhawks, and Boston Bruins could be in the mix.