For Newly Extended Forward Dylan Guenther, Improvement Is His Daily Goal

When Dylan Guenther was originally called up to the former Arizona Coyotes in January, general manager Bill Armstrong expected him to be around to provide depth for a forward group decimated by injuries.

Turns out that proved to be the harbinger to a permanent spot on the roster.

Guenther exploded for 35 points in just 45 games last season, and the Utah Hockey Club rewarded him with an eight-year contract extension Friday, reported by Craig Morgan to have an average annual value of $7.14 million.

Related: Forward Dylan Guenther Inks Eight-Year Extension With Utah

Armstrong and Guenther both addressed the contract extension Saturday in the World Records Lounge of the Oval, with Armstrong saying the commitment was needed to help "invest (in him) early".

His character off the ice has also grabbed the attention of the front office, with Armstrong calling Guenther "elite in every aspect".

"It's the ultimate compliment," Guenther said, adding his commitment to improvement is something he takes pride in.

"I take that into every practice, game, and every day off. No matter where you're playing (juniors, AHL, etc.), you can always get better."

That attitude is what Armstrong said he hopes will trickle down to each prospect waiting for their turn to get called up to the NHL.

"He (Guenther) is going to be a direct role model because he's experienced that," Armstrong said. "That's a big thing if you can help those guys take the next step and get comfortable in the NHL."

More from training camp here:

Related: Training Camp Nightcap: Andre Tourigny Talks Intensity Level In Practices

Related: Josh Doan And Clayton Keller Ready To Learn Again In Training Camp