"Overrated. Was a product of Sidney Crosby's greatness": NHL fans debate Jake Guentzel hitting career-high 90+ points next season

NHL fans are buzzing in a debate over Jake Guentzel's potential to hit a career-high 90+ points in the upcoming season with the Tampa Bay Lightning. The discussion stemmed from a poll by the NHL on social media, asking fans if they see Guentzel as a 90-point player with his new team.

Guentzel's career-high for points was 84 in the 2021-22 season with the Penguins. His second-highest tally was 77 points last season, which was split between Pittsburgh and the Carolina Hurricanes. However, his new seven-year, $63 million contract with Tampa Bay has raised expectations and skepticism alike.

Some fans argue that Guentzel's success was largely due to playing alongside Sidney Crosby in Pittsburgh. One vocal critic stated,

"Overrated. Was a product of Sidney Crosby's greatness."

Another fan noted,

"I don't see it. He's played with Crosby and never hit that point mark. I don't think he hits it playing with Kucherov and Point either."

A user analysed that Tampa Bay's conservative system will limit his production.

"Playing on a defensive-minded team. He'll be lucky to get 65 points this year" on X.

However, other fans came in support of Guentzel.

"Over, I think he'll hit 95ish with Point and Kucherov." one fan wrote on X.

"Over 90+ points, how many over that mark will remain a mystery until the end of 2024 and beginning of 25" another fan wrote.

"Its totally possible he breaks 100 with this team." a user commented.

Jake Guentzel optimistic about Lightning's Stanley Cup chances

Jake Guentzel feels positive about the Tampa Bay Lightning's potential to clinch the Stanley Cup this season.

"They all know how to win," Jake Guentzel said of his new Lightning teammates to NHL.com on July. "There’s just a winning pedigree there. [And I] still feel like we have a chance to win."

Guentzel is expected to play a top-six role alongside core forwards like Nikita Kucherov, Brayden Point, Brandon Hagel and Anthony Cirelli.

“There’s a lot of high-end players, elite players on the team, and just an unbelievable opportunity for me and my family to go do something else on our own,” Guentzel said.

Ultimately, Guentzel just wants to contribute to another Lightning Cup win.

"I just want to help them try to win the Stanley Cup. I think that’s always the ultimate goal. Obviously it’s playoffs first but just kind of come in and do my thing. Play hockey and kind of have fun with it."

With his experience and positive attitude, Jake Guentzel is ready to be part of the Lightning's next title run.