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Jake Guentzel Shares His Thoughts on his Return to Pittsburgh
Published March 25, 2024 at 8:40 PM
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March 25, 2024 (8:40 PM)
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Marvin AzrakMarch 25, 2024 (8:40 PM)
Jake Guenztzel is coming home on Tuesday. Guentzel will be up for a surreal homecoming as he faces the Pittsburgh Penguins for the first time since being traded on Tuesday night at PPG Paints arena.
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Since joining the Carolina Hurricanes on March 7, Guentzel has notched 12 points in just eight games. The Hurricanes are riding high with a 6-1-1 record since his debut, putting them just one point behind the New York Rangers in the fight for the Metropolitan Division crown.
Jake Guentzel Prepares for Emotional Homecoming Against Pittsburgh Penguins
Meanwhile, Guentzel's former side , has struggled since the trade, going 2-5-2. With a nine-point gap behind the Washington Capitals for a wild card spot and just twelve games left, the Penguins are feeling the pressure.
Drafted by Pittsburgh in the third round in 2013, Guentzel became a staple on the team, with 466 points over eight seasons and clinching the Stanley Cup in 2017.
His departure marked the end of an era for the Penguins, signaling a shift in their roster dynamics.
As Guentzel prepares to face his old teammates, he acknowledges the mix of emotions involved, but is also focused on the main event.
It's obviously really exciting," Guentzel told reporters after practice in Raleigh, North Carolina, on Monday. "Family is still there so I'll get to see them tonight. It'll be nice to see some of the guys. But it's just going to be a fun game and hopefully get the two points.
The 29 year-old won't be afraid to show emotion though.
It's going to be emotional. It's going to be fun. It's a special place in our family's hearts. It'll be a cool experience.
For Penguins fans, Guentzel's return will surely be bittersweet. While they'll miss seeing him in black and gold, they'll have a chance to show their appreciation during what's bound to be an emotional homecoming.
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POLL | ||
March 25 | 286 answers Jake Guentzel Shares His Thoughts on his Return to Pittsburgh How do you feel about Jake Guentzel facing his former team, the Pittsburgh Penguins, for the first time since being traded? | ||
Excited | 76 | 26.6 % |
Emotional | 210 | 73.4 % |
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