NHL insider Chris Johnston has suggested that drafting Gavin McKenna could serve as a crucial factor in convincing Sidney Crosby to continue his career with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Despite Crosby’s contract running through the 2026-27 season and his expressed intent to retire as a Penguin, questions about his long-term future remain amid the team’s ongoing playoff challenges.
Johnston pointed out that if Crosby remains with the Penguins long enough, the arrival of McKenna may influence his decision to stay, especially in light of potential extended playoff absences. The Penguins face the possibility of missing the postseason for a fourth straight year, setting the stage for another disappointing campaign.
Potential Impact of Gavin McKenna on Crosby’s Decision
During an appearance on the SDPN podcast, Johnston explained the possible influence McKenna could have on Crosby’s choices:
“This is the counterpoint: if he does hang in there long enough, there might start to be reasons to stay. Like if they do get a McKenna, maybe he takes that seriously. Like that he did it for him. Yes. That is some of the X factor. Imagine they miss the playoffs for the fourth straight year. That’s just going to feel even worse. Another lost season.”
—Chris Johnston, NHL Insider
Sidney Crosby has shown frustration with circulating trade rumors but remains steadfast in his loyalty to Pittsburgh, where he has spent his entire career and claimed three Stanley Cups. His agent and close friend Nathan MacKinnon has also dismissed trade speculation as “fake news.” While the Penguins currently have no plans to trade Crosby, some reports suggest the possibility of reconsideration after the 2026 Winter Olympics if struggles persist.
Gavin McKenna’s Rising Profile and Comparisons to Elite NHL Players
Gavin McKenna, a 17-year-old star from Whitehorse, Yukon, recently committed to Penn State University for the 2025-26 season, choosing the NCAA route over the CHL. His decision was reportedly influenced by a $700,000 deal, the largest ever in college hockey history.
Recognized as the top prospect in the 2026 NHL Draft, McKenna has drawn comparisons to NHL greats such as Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid. His exceptional hockey intelligence, speed, and scoring ability mark him as a potential franchise player.
In the 2024-25 season, while playing for the Medicine Hat Tigers of the WHL, McKenna recorded 129 points, consisting of 41 goals and 88 assists, over 56 regular-season games, placing him second in WHL scoring. He also achieved a 54-game point streak, highlighted by 32 goals and 100 points in 45 games, a feat that earned him the WHL Player of the Year and CHL Player of the Year honors. This made him the third-youngest recipient of those awards after Crosby and John Tavares.
During the playoffs, McKenna contributed nine goals and 38 points in 16 games and scored during the Memorial Cup final, even though Medicine Hat fell 4-1 to London.
Significance of McKenna’s Arrival Amid Penguins’ Playoff Challenges
The emergence of Gavin McKenna as a top prospect is seen as a potential catalyst for both the Pittsburgh Penguins’ on-ice success and Sidney Crosby’s future with the franchise. With Crosby facing uncertainty amid consecutive playoff absences, McKenna’s presence could provide fresh motivation and a new competitive edge for the team.
As the Penguins approach critical seasons ahead, McKenna’s development and integration into the organization may play a decisive role in determining whether Crosby opts to remain a Penguin through the later stages of his career, maintaining stability for one of the NHL’s most iconic players.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many teeth did Sidney Crosby lose?
A. Sidney Crosby lost two front teeth but still made Penguins fans happy by scoring a great goal. Despite missing teeth, he was unavailable to talk about the impressive one-handed goal he scored. His play helped the Pittsburgh Penguins secure their 11th playoff appearance in a row.
Q. Did Sidney Crosby lose teeth?
A. Crosby’s jaw was broken, and he lost a few teeth, which led to requiring jaw surgery and significant dental treatment.
Q. What disease does Sidney Crosby have?
A. Crosby’s DNA was sent to the CDC for an advanced test. He was not allowed to play until the results were received. The CDC test confirmed that Crosby had mumps.