NHL Network is getting ready for this season by ranking the top 50 players in the League right now. Researchers, producers and on-air personalities compiled their list, and players 50-41 were revealed on Wednesday in the fifth of a nine-part series. Here is the list:
50. Jake Guentzel, F, Tampa Bay Lightning
The 29-year-old had 30 goals and 77 points in 67 games last season, including 25 points (eight goals, 17 assists) in 17 games after he was acquired by the Carolina Hurricanes in a trade with the Pittsburgh Penguins on March 7. Guentzel, who signed a seven-year contract with the Lightning on July 1, has at least 30 goals in three consecutive seasons and at least 20 in seven straight. He also is a proven playoff performer with 67 points (38 goals, 29 assists) in 69 postseason games.