Jake Guentzel Upgraded, Could Play in Penguins Opener

The initial press release in August noted that Pittsburgh Penguins left wing Jake Guentzel had ankle surgery and would be re-evaluated on Nov. 1.

Guentzel began skating early in training camp and surprised many by rejoining practice last week as a “full go.”

As the Penguins organization sets its final roster sometime before 5 p.m. Monday, Guentzel could be in the lineup Tuesday against the Chicago Blackhawks in the season opener for both teams.

“Yeah, there is (a chance). I think right now, his status is day-to-day. He’ll more than likely be a game-time decision, and we’ll see where he is for the next couple of days,” said coach Mike Sullivan.”Obviously, he’s practiced in a full capacity. He was heavily involved in practice (Sunday). He’s an important player for us. We’re really encouraged with his progress.”

The Penguins host Chicago on Tuesday at PPG Paints Arena. The game is being billed as a battle of generations, the Penguins Sidney Crosby vs. Chicago’s new phenom Connor Bedard. For the national TV audience, the puck will drop after 8 p.m.