Sidney Crosby, captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins, is unlikely to be traded during the upcoming summer, but speculation about his future continues to circulate strongly. The ongoing Sidney Crosby NHL trade speculation centers around a potential deal after the 2026 Winter Olympics, due to changes happening within the Penguins organization.
Sportsnet insider Nick Kypreos, sharing insights on Sportsnet 590 The Fan and his updated Trade Board 3.0, noted that Crosby has yet to appear on his official trade watch list. However, Kypreos urged fans and hockey observers to “keep a close eye” on Crosby’s situation as the Penguins undergo significant transformation.
Organizational Changes Trigger Trade Rumors Around Penguins Captain
The Penguins missed the NHL playoffs for a third consecutive season, finishing seventh in the Metropolitan Division, which contributes to questions about Crosby’s willingness to remain with a team in rebuilding mode. At 37 years old, Crosby continues to demonstrate elite performance, posting 91 points over 80 games last season.
Behind the scenes, the Penguins are reportedly going through a major restructuring, with potential changes in ownership also under discussion. Kypreos emphasized these uncertainties, noting,
“There is plenty going on behind the scenes with the Penguins, now in a major rebuild and a reported potential change in ownership on the horizon.”
Furthermore, he added,
“The Fenway Group remains adamant that their intent is to find a minority investor to move forward, but could they entertain selling the team entirely? And how would those decisions impact Crosby’s future with the team? A question that big will take time to answer.”
Crosby is still under contract for two more seasons following a three-year, $17.4 million agreement signed last year, carrying an $8.7 million annual salary cap hit.
Possibility of a Trade Post-2026 Winter Olympics Gains Traction
Kypreos suggested that while Crosby continues to excel on the ice, his role on a rebuilding team might not be fitting for his caliber. He stated,
“(Crosby) is too good right now to just be a babysitter for the next three years,”
and expressed concern by adding,
“It will be such a disservice to the history of our game if we watch him stay in Pittsburgh the next three or four years.”
The timeline for a potential trade is expected to center around the 2026 Winter Olympics, with Kypreos highlighting the Montreal Canadiens among the teams to monitor closely. He commented,
“Wait till they get Sid Crosby after the Olympics,”
referencing the Canadiens’ interest, before admitting,
“I’m liking the odds a little better than I did maybe a few weeks ago.”
The NHL trade deadline, anticipated in early March following the Olympics, is likely to be the critical period when negotiations or offers could take shape.
Impact of Potential Sidney Crosby Move on Penguins and NHL Landscape
If a trade involving Sidney Crosby were to happen, it would mark a dramatic shift for the Penguins, who have relied on his leadership and skill for over a decade. A move would also signal accelerated progress in their rebuilding efforts, potentially introducing fresh assets or prospects to the roster.
For Crosby, a transition to another franchise like the Montreal Canadiens could revitalize his career with a team eager to return to competitive prominence. The speculation reflects broader tensions within the NHL regarding veteran players’ roles on teams undergoing deep reconstruction.
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, Sidney Crosby NHL trade speculation is expected to intensify, with fans and insiders alike watching Pittsburgh’s evolving situation carefully to understand how the Penguins will shape their future and what legacy the iconic captain will leave behind.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many teeth did Sidney Crosby lose?
A. Sidney Crosby lost two front teeth, but his impressive one-handed goal still brought joy to the Penguins. Despite his injury, he couldn’t comment on the play that helped secure the Pittsburgh Penguins’ spot in their 11th straight playoffs.
Q. Did Sidney Crosby lose teeth?
A. Crosby broke his jaw and lost several teeth, which led to needing surgery on his jaw and a lot of dental repairs.
Q. What disease does Sidney Crosby have?
A. Crosby’s DNA was submitted to the CDC for a detailed examination. He was benched from the game until the results were available. The CDC test confirmed that Crosby had mumps.