Jake Guentzel Reflects on Relationship With Penguins Captain
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PITTSBURGH – Jake Guentzel was a key figure in the Pittsburgh Penguins organization for about a decade since being drafted in 2013. As a rookie in 2017, he helped the Penguins secure their second straight Stanley Cup and led the entire postseason in goals with 13.
Over his eight years with the Penguins, Guentzel was one of the most consistent goal scorers and learned from one of the best players ever to lace a pair of skates. As Guentzel entered his prime, he became Sidney Crosby’s go-to winger.
Guentzel and Crosby became one of the best duos in the NHL by combining their chemistry and skill. With the Penguins, Guentzel scored 219 goals, and Crosby assisted on 114 of them.
Crosby’s numbers took a hit when Guentzel left the lineup with an injury before eventually being traded to the Caroline Hurricanes.
As the Hurricanes look like Stanley Cup contenders, Guentzel reflected on his time in Pittsburgh with Michael Russo of the Athletic. Guentzel discussed how much he loved the city of Pittsburgh, the Penguins as an organization, and the fanbase as a whole.
Most notably, Guentzel spoke about how much Crosby meant to him and his career.
“It was tough because I was so close to a couple guys, especially Sid,” Guentzel said. “I sat next to him for I don’t know how long, and a guy I really looked up to and a guy who took me under his wing.”
After learning of his trade to Carolina, Crosby only had great things to say about Guentzel.
“A great player, a great teammate, a friend,” Crosby said. “He did everything he possibly could in his time here. Just a privilege to play with him.”
The chemistry between the two on the ice was obvious, but beyond sharing a lineup, Guentzel and Crosby have a special bond.
“I was very fortunate to play alongside him,” Guentzel said. “We got so close, he’s really like an older brother to me.”
They may no longer be teammates, but everyone understands that hockey is a business sometimes, and trades are inevitable. Sharing a locker room may end, but the friendship between Crosby and Guentzel isn’t going anywhere any time soon.
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