Sidney Crosby’s future with the Pittsburgh Penguins is under scrutiny as questions arise over whether his loyalty to the franchise or his desire to win another Stanley Cup will guide his next move. The 37-year-old center, who was the first overall pick in 2005, remains on a two-year contract carrying an $8.7 million cap hit, but the Penguins’ recent struggles threaten his tenure.
After finishing near the bottom of the Metropolitan Division last season, Pittsburgh appears poised for a rebuild. This has sparked rumors that Crosby might be traded to a championship-contending team to chase another title before retiring. NHL insider Jeff Marek described this situation as a personal conflict within Crosby between his dedication to the Penguins and his intense competitive drive.
“What you’re going to see is a test and you’re going to see a struggle between two things that live inside of Sidney Crosby,” Marek said on the Sekeres & Price podcast. (18:02)
Marek highlighted Crosby’s determination, evident in his performance for Team Canada at the recent Four Nations Face-Off tournament, as a sign of his relentless will to compete. Yet, with the Penguins unlikely to make the postseason this year, Crosby faces a choice that pits his passion for winning against his allegiance to his long-time team.
What’s going to win out here? His competitive streak or his loyalty? Because it’s going to be one or the other because there’s not going to be a postseason for the Pittsburgh Penguins.”
According to Marek, Crosby cannot have both the comfort of loyalty in Pittsburgh and the opportunity to compete at the highest level simultaneously. The rebuilding phase underway means the Penguins will not contend this season, potentially prompting Crosby to consider his future outside the organization.
Comparing Crosby’s Situation to Brad Marchand’s Career Move
Matthew Sekeres drew parallels between Crosby’s dilemma and the recent example of Brad Marchand, who spent the majority of his career with the Boston Bruins. Marchand, known for his dedication to Boston, was traded to the Florida Panthers at the deadline after contract discussions stalled. His move culminated with winning a second Stanley Cup last season, validating the decision to switch teams in pursuit of a title.
“And he just watched Brad Marchand. He knows Brad very well too. He just watched Brad Marchand rent himself out and get another cup. He had to have seen that and gone, “Oh, that looked pretty fun,” Matthew Sekeres said. (18:45 onwards)
This example suggests that Crosby might face similar temptations to prioritize his competitiveness and legacy over remaining loyal to Pittsburgh, especially if the Penguins’ current trajectory prevents another playoff run.
The Potential Impact of Crosby’s Decision on His Career and the Penguins
The decision Crosby makes could significantly impact both his legacy and the future of the Penguins franchise. Staying loyal could mean enduring a challenging rebuilding phase but further solidifying his status as a franchise icon. On the other hand, seeking a trade to a contender might provide a clearer path to securing another Stanley Cup win before retirement.
As Crosby’s contract continues, the hockey world will watch closely to see whether his loyalty to Pittsburgh or his desire for postseason success shapes the next chapter of his celebrated career.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many teeth did Sidney Crosby lose?
A. Sidney Crosby lost two teeth, but his goal made the Penguins happy. After missing two front teeth, Crosby couldn’t talk about his impressive one-handed goal. The goal helped the Pittsburgh Penguins secure their 11th consecutive playoff spot.
Q. What disease does Sidney Crosby have?
A. Dr. Dharmesh Vyas, the head team doctor for the Pittsburgh Penguins, held a news conference on Sunday. He discussed when Sidney Crosby was diagnosed with the mumps.