Newly acquired forward for the Carolina Hurricanes, Jake Guentzel, formerly of the Pittsburgh Penguins received an emotional welcome on his return with a heartfelt video tribute and a standing ovation.
Jake Guentzel played for the Pittsburgh Penguins club for seven and a half years, before being dealt to the Hurricanes franchise this past 2024 NHL Trade Deadline. He has emerged as one of the top players in the league with 64 points this season. He has 24 goals and 40 assists, being a healthy plus+20, which complements his skating ability.
Regarding his return to Pittsburgh, he told reporters ahead of the game:
"It's obviously really exciting, 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."
Sidbey Crosby also addressed Guentzel's Pittsburgh return as an opposition player ahead of the game. He said:
"Oh yeah, I've been talking to him. Especially early on when guys go to different teams and things, you always want to see how things are going and make sure they're adjusting," Especially with 'Guentz,' obviously, with our relationship. 'Rudy' as well. You're always wondering how things are going."
"The team he went to, he was going to help them. He's a great player. I think he's had a great time with them, e Heas hurt the first few games there ad looks like he's settled in nicely and is producing a lot. So he's playing good hockey for them."
Jake Guentzel left pointless for the Hurricanes in an intense game
The Carolina Hurricanes forward's return was not as he hoped, as he was left pointless for the first time in three games left pointless. In the past two games, he has four assists tallied to his gameplay. Ever since joining the Hurricanes franchise, he has developed as a playmaker to complement his goal-scoring game.
During the game, the Penguins opened the scoring with a goal from Jesse Puljujarvi 2:41 minutes into the second period. Dmitry Orlov of the Hurricanes scored almost nine minutes later to tie the game.
Bryan Rust scored seven minutes later, with two minutes remaining in the second frame to take a 2-1 lead over the Hurricanes. The gameplay was outstanding as both teams played with grit and tough competitiveness.
With two minutes left in the third period, the Penguins scored two empty net goals to secure a 4-1 win. The third and fourth goals were scored by Drew O'Connor and Sydney Crosby respectively.
