Jake Guentzel injury update: Insider provides update on Hurricanes forward's return

The Carolina Hurricanes made headlines with a blockbuster trade, acquiring forward Jake Guentzel from the Pittsburgh Penguins. The trade involved sending forward Michael Bunting, three prospects and two conditional draft picks to the Penguins.

However, the excitement surrounding the trade faded as Jake Guentzel was placed on injured reserve by the Penguins. He was expected to miss up to four weeks, with the Penguins projecting Guentzel to return to the team in early March.

Mike Morreale, senior draft writer at NHL.com shared insights from Rod Brind'Amour, the head coach for the Carolina Hurricanes.

"Jake Guentzel is with the team but, obviously, will not play tonight. He is eligible to be removed from LTIR tomorrow (Sunday)."

According to NHL insider Bob Pompeani, Jake Guentzel is expected to debut this week.

"Jake Guentzel eligible to return from injury which means his #Hurricanes debut will be this week," Pompeani wrote on Twitter.

When interviewed during Carolina's game against the Flames, Guentzel said he was eager to return.

"There's a lot of high-end players on this team," Guentzel said. "Looking forward to being a part of it. So, I just can't wait to get started."

Guentzel also expressed confidence in making it to the playoffs and a possible Stanley Cup win.

Pittsburgh Penguins star Jake Guentzel bids farewell to iconic 'Jake's Shake' at Milkshake Factory

Milkshake Factory bid a fond farewell to Pittsburgh Penguins star Jake Guentzel on Friday, retiring his iconic shake that has garnered immense popularity over the past six years. The event drew over 100 fans at the Downtown location, where Guentzel's number was ceremoniously retired.

Shawn Smith, VP of operations at Milkshake Factory, said:

"We are going to miss Jake... It's not going to be easy to see him go."

Over half a million shakes were sold, leaving an indelible mark on the city and its fans.

The delectable concoction, a blend of hot fudge, cookies and cream, brownies and whipped cream, was a variation of Guentzel's personal favorite when he first arrived in Pittsburgh.

For those who missed the event, Milkshake Factory plans to continue the legacy by renaming the treat the "Cookie Brownie Fudge," ensuring it remains available at all its locations, including PPG Arena.