Oilers top trade target refuses massive contract extension

Jake Guentzel, who plays for the Pittsburgh Penguins, has been one of the biggest names that the Oilers have been linked to. This would be such a huge addition for Edmonton's top 6, as he has 49 points in 46 games this year. He's been rumoured to have not been wanted an extension for a while, and now Seravalli went on 590 The FAN to clear the air.

The first point is that Guentzel has already shut down an 8.5x6 offer from the Pittsburgh Penguins, which is very surprising. Guentzel makes it obvious that he either wants more money, or he doesn't want a contract without 8 years. It's evident he's not attached to the thought of being a Penguin, despite their attempts to get him back for the foreseeable future.

If he wants a big deal somewhere else, it seems that a team may have to trade for him before they are able to sign him. If what Seravalli is saying is true, it seems like he may only want 8 years for his contract.


The only issue in his chances to be an Oiler are that it means the Oilers have to free up some serious money. The Oilers currently have 880k in cap space, and Jake Guentzel carries a cap hit of $6M this year, plus whatever AAV he wants in the next 8 years. Considering that the Penguins also have also only have a cap space of 46k, if they retain half the Oilers still have to move out just under $3M in players.

This could definitely be done, and if Guentzel isn't happy with Pittsburgh's performance he may want to come chase a cup in Edmonton. The Oilers would massively benefit from a guy like Guentzel, and he may be exactly what they need to get themselves over the hump.