Pittsburgh Penguins star Sidney Crosby may face a crucial decision about his future with the team as early as next summer, according to NHL analyst Mike Rupp. Rupp suggested that significant changes within the Penguins’ roster could influence Crosby’s choice to stay or depart, marking a turning point in his longtime association with the franchise.

Speaking on NHL Network on July 28, Rupp outlined the conditions that might push Crosby to consider leaving Pittsburgh. He emphasized that while no major moves are expected during the current season, the next offseason could be decisive for the Penguins legend. Rupp stated,

“I think next summer would be that decision-making time, and potentially, Sidney Crosby may be leaving. But I don’t see anything happening this year, and I don’t think what their roster looks like in terms of what people might predict for wins for them.”

— Mike Rupp, NHL Analyst

Rupp identified the retirement of Evgeni Malkin as a possible catalyst for Crosby’s decision. The departure of Malkin, another core figure for the Penguins, would significantly alter the team’s dynamics, possibly prompting Crosby to reconsider his future. Rupp explained,

“I don’t think the one thing that would get him to potentially leave, I think, is just playing out this season. And if getting Malkin riding off into the sunset, if he’s going to retire and not be a Penguin now, that would break up the core guys.”

— Mike Rupp, NHL Analyst

Despite potential challenges, Crosby’s commitment to the Penguins has historically been strong. Rupp described Crosby’s determination to revive the team’s fortunes, suggesting that he intends to fight hard for the club’s success before any departure. Rupp continued,

“I think he’s going to go kicking and screaming, trying to drag this franchise into relevance and stay in the mix no matter what, like he’s done. But everyone has a breaking point. I assume he wants to stay there. He’s always he’s always, re-upping in a team-friendly deal. You don’t do that if you want to move on.”

— Mike Rupp, NHL Analyst

Rupp acknowledged that Crosby has made significant sacrifices for the Penguins, frequently agreeing to team-friendly contracts to help maintain competitiveness. This loyalty makes it difficult to imagine Crosby retiring while playing for any team other than Pittsburgh.

Speculation Around Sidney Crosby Joining Colorado Avalanche

Among the various trade rumors circulating online, a move to the Colorado Avalanche is often mentioned as a possibility for Sidney Crosby. This speculation partly arises from Crosby’s friendship with Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon, both hailing from Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia. The two players often train together during the offseason, strengthening the connection.

Despite persistent rumors, MacKinnon and others have dismissed the likelihood of Crosby joining the Avalanche. Nevertheless, a Denver Gazette mailbag article from July 19 considered the idea of Crosby relocating to Colorado, proposing a trade scenario that would send Martin Necas and other assets to Pittsburgh in exchange for Crosby.

The motivation behind such a deal would be to give MacKinnon a veteran leader capable of inspiring another Stanley Cup pursuit. The article drew comparisons to the 2001 Boston Bruins, when Ray Bourque joined Joe Sakic’s Colorado Avalanche team, helping spur their championship run. However, the parallel is imperfect as Bourque was chasing his first Stanley Cup after many years, while Crosby already holds three championship titles.

If the trade were to materialize, MacKinnon and the Avalanche would gain a major asset aiming to restore the team’s championship ambitions, potentially altering the NHL landscape.

The Stakes for Sidney Crosby and the Penguins’ Future

The potential shifts in Sidney Crosby’s career path could signal a pivotal moment for the Pittsburgh Penguins franchise. If Evgeni Malkin retires, breaking up the team’s longstanding core, Crosby might reevaluate his commitment after years of loyalty and leadership.

The Penguins will face intense pressure to remain competitive as Crosby approaches this critical decision. His departure would represent a major turning point for the club and the NHL, given Crosby’s stature and influence in the sport.

Fans and analysts alike await the summer ahead, anticipating how these developments might unfold. The coming offseason is poised to test the resilience of the Penguins’ roster and the future of one of hockey’s most iconic players.