Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/1170828
OCTOBER 2019 2019-20 NHL Preview 21 What is it that makes Jake an elite NHL Player? I think his hockey sense is his biggest strength. He can make plays and goes to the right areas. If that means going to the net front he will or finding soft spots in the slot. He sees the game really well. Having seen and been a part of his exceptional rookie debut, are you surprised that he's only continued to improve on that? When you score on your first two shots it's a bit of a surprise, but if you look at how he's gotten better and produced at every level, maybe not as much as you would think. And what he's been able to do in the playoffs is pretty amazing. That part I would say usually takes longer as a young player, but for him he seemed to find another level. What advice do you remember giving him in that first NHL game? Just to have fun with it. You only get to experience that once and the biggest thing is you always remember that game. You want guys to take it all in as much as they can, but it's not always the easiest thing. That was basically it. Where does the chemistry between you two come from and how do you think each of your play compliments one another? We both see the game similarly, try to do the little things right, winning battles and going to tough areas if needed. That way we can create turnovers and also support each other which is huge. Any final thoughts or off-ice memo- ries/stories you'd care to share? It's not a specific memory, but think it's pretty impressive what 'Guentz' has done up to this point. The thing that stands out the most is his work ethic and how much he loves the game. I am sure sitting next to me he gets tired of hearing about plays or different things to try, but he's a great teammate and whenever he's challenged or goes through tough time he always bounces back, which is a great quality to have. SID SAYS Since the first time they stepped on the ice together with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Sidney Crosby and Jake Guentzel have found a special type of chemistry. Starting with their Stanley Cup season in 2017 when Guentzel matched Dino Ciccarelli and Ville Leino for points by a rookie (21) in a postseason. Crosby shared some of his thoughts about his soon to be 25-year- old teammate.