Ex-Penguins Update: Final 2024-25

With the Stanley Cup Playoffs under way, it’s time to post my season ending Ex-Penguins Update.

The name topping the list probably comes as no surprise. Jake Guentzel thrived in his new digs in Tampa Bay, piling up 80 points while netting a career-best 41 goals. Jake’s a big reason why the Lightning have a legit shot at re-capturing the Cup.

Among the other top scorers, former Shark and current Star Mikael Granlund (22 goals, 66 points) continued his impressive resurgence. With 21 goals and 53 points, feisty Jason Zucker enjoyed a bounce-back season with the Sabres. While not as productive, Zach Aston-Reese (Blue Jackets) and Mark Jankowski (Preds and ‘Canes) experienced career revivals as well.

Proving that persistence pays, at age 31, Devils forward Stefan Noesen popped a career-high 22 goals. Jared McCann of the Kraken also potted 22 goals to go with a solid 61 points, but continues to regress as a goal-scorer following a breakout 40-goal season in 2022-23. Acquired by the Pens from Florida in the same 2019 trade as McCann, Nick Bjugstad likewise tumbled from 22 goals to eight for Utah.

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