Elliotte Friedman names Tampa Bay as the top team to acquire Jake Guentzel

Outside of Toronot's Mitch Marner, Jake Guentzel of the Carolina Hurricanes has been the top name circulated for a major trade in the NHL. Given that the former Pittsburgh Penguin recorded 20 points in his first 13 games with his current team, this should come as no surprise.

While many believed Guentzel would remain in Raleigh, some analysts have suggested otherwise. Recently, Frank Seravalli of the Daily Faceoff discussed the possibility of a move to the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Additionally, NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman has previously connected the 29-year-old forward to another Canadian team. He mentions that the Vancouver Canucks have been in the market for a premier forward, and Jake Guentzel is a potential candidate.

However, it seems that these Canadian teams are not quite at the front of the line for this veteran forward. Elliotte Friedman updated fans on the 32 Thoughts Podcast, stating that Jake Guentzel could very well be part of the Tampa Bay Lightning next season.

With this news, Canadian fans can probably lower their expectations of this skilled forward joining their team. Yet, with no deal settled in Tampa Bay, there is a sliver of hope for the acquisition of Jake Guentzel.