Jake Guentzel returns to play against his former team the Pittsburgh Penguins
Photo credit: Pittsburgh Hockey Now

Jake Guentzel reveals he didn't want to leave Pittsburgh

Published March 27, 2024 at 11:00
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In an emotional return to Pittsburgh, Carolina Hurricane Jake Guentzel reveals that his intention was to never leave the Penguins

It was an emotional night in Pittsburgh. The Penguins put together a tribute that had Jake Guentzel, the fans and his family getting emotional.


Jake Guentzel made his first return to PPG Paints Arena as a member of another team. The 29-year-old was drafted by the Penguins in the 2013 draft. Guentzel went on to score 219 goals in 503 games as a Penguin. One of his biggest moments and contributions was during the 2017 cup run when Guentzel went on a tear scoring 13 goals, 5 of which were game winners.


Jake Guentzel opens up about not wanting to leave the Penguins

The Penguins were able to defeat the Canes 4-1 last night, Guentzel was held scoreless although he managed 6 shots against his former team. He was asked after the game about leaving the Penguins.

"My intention was to stay, but they thought there was a better direction - to go in a different way," he said from the visitors' locker room. "It was out of my hand, not my choice."

When asked about his thoughts about being a free agent and returning to Pittsburgh, Guentzel wisely did not answer, saying he is not thinking about the summer.


As Read On: CBS News
"My intention was to stay:" Jake Guentzel, held pointless in Pittsburgh return, speaks on time with Penguins
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Jake Guentzel reveals he didn't want to leave Pittsburgh

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