We’re pushing through the halfway point today in terms of forwards as I get through the top 60.  To see my posts for the top 40 forwards, you can check that out here.  Let’s get to it!

41) Jake Guentzel – Guentzel had his big regular season breakout with 40 goals and 36 assists last season.  At first, I was a little hesitant to rank Guentzel this high, but now I feel really good about.  One, he was stapled onto Crosby’s wing all season.  I don’t expect that to change.  Two, the shot rate took a huge jump forward in year three.  I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets to 3+ per game this year.  Three, and the biggest thing, is that there’s a spot for him on the first power play unit with Kessel’s departure.  Guentzel had only 6 PPG and 5 PPA last season.  He could easily get to 20 PPP if he earns that spot in the preseason (his competition is Galchenyuk I guess?).  Sure, we can’t expect 17.6% shooting again, but I don’t expect much regression getting to play with Crosby.  I think Guentzel is a solid bet to get back to 40 goals again and boosts his assists to get up to a point per game.  He should be a solid value at this point, especially if he falls between last season’s 26 PIM and his 42 in 2017-18.