Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins remains at the center of NHL trade rumors as speculation heats up ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft in Los Angeles. Amid these discussions, Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon addressed the swirling rumors, firmly dismissing suggestions of Crosby’s imminent departure.
Former NHL enforcer Georges Laraque fueled the speculation by posting on X that there was a strong possibility Crosby might play for a different team soon. This claim quickly spread, catching the eye of MacKinnon, who responded directly with a simple rebuttal labeling the rumors as “Fake news.”
Currently, Crosby has two years remaining on his contract, which carries an $8.7 million salary cap hit. At 38 years old this August, the three-time Stanley Cup champion’s prime window for capturing another title is narrowing, especially as Pittsburgh struggles to reestablish itself as a top contender. The Penguins have missed the playoffs since 2022 and managed only 72 wins combined over the past two seasons.
Given this situation, a potential trade to a team like the Colorado Avalanche—who won the Stanley Cup most recently in 2022—could increase Crosby’s chances of adding to his championship tally. For Pittsburgh, moving Crosby could yield valuable assets to aid their rebuilding efforts. Despite the challenges, Crosby demonstrated his ongoing elite performance during the 2024-25 season, tallying 33 goals and 58 assists in 91 games, missing just two contests.
Crosby’s tenure with the Penguins remains intact for now, the same team that selected him first overall in the 2005 NHL Draft. Meanwhile, Nathan MacKinnon’s clear dismissal of the trade rumors signals a steadfast loyalty and respect toward Crosby, emphasizing the uncertain nature of the gossip circulating during the NHL Draft period.
MacKinnon’s Firm Response to Trade Speculation Involving Crosby
Nathan MacKinnon’s public denial of the Sidney Crosby trade rumors underscores the sensitivity surrounding one of hockey’s most enduring figures. MacKinnon’s one-word comment “Fake news” left little room for doubt and seemed to put an end to the speculation, illustrating his support for Crosby’s current standing with the Penguins.
As one of the league’s elite players, MacKinnon’s opinion carries weight and reflects the broader respect he and others hold for Crosby despite the recent inconsistencies in Pittsburgh’s performance. Their ongoing competition and camaraderie keep the spotlight on both players as they continue to strive for success in their respective careers.