Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby’s future with the team remains secure, according to NHL analyst Avry Lewis-McDougal. Despite widespread rumors suggesting a possible trade, Lewis-McDougal insists Crosby will remain with the Penguins for the duration of his career.
Analyst Confirms Crosby’s Loyalty to the Penguins
On July 30, during an appearance on Hockey on Fanatics View, Avry Lewis-McDougal strongly dismissed the trade speculation involving Sidney Crosby. He emphasized Crosby’s deep connection to Pittsburgh and his commitment to the franchise where he has played since he was 18 years old.
Lewis-McDougal stated,
“People keep saying me, oh, with the penguins, you know, will Crosby? Will Crosby leave? Sidney Crosby’s not going anywhere. Sidney Crosby is bleeding, he’s bleeding black and gold until the very end.”
This quote highlights Crosby’s unwavering loyalty to the Penguins and the black and gold colors he represents.
He further reinforced this by remarking,
“He’ll be the guy that’ll play, you know, 21-22 years when he calls it a day. I just don’t see him asking out of a franchise that he’s been with since he was 18 years old and won Stanley Cups. Crosby is there. I don’t see him leaving.”
Lewis-McDougal’s confidence in Crosby’s future with Pittsburgh comes amid the franchise’s rebuilding phase.
Although the Penguins are entering a rebuilding period and rumors swirl about potential trades, Crosby’s current contract, which has one year remaining on a two-year deal signed last season, suggests he will stay in Pittsburgh at least until his contract ends.
Alex Ovechkin Comments on Potential Crosby Trade to Capitals
Washington Capitals legend Alex Ovechkin recently shared his thoughts on the idea of Sidney Crosby joining his team. During an interview on July 13 with Match TV’s Pavel Lysenkov, Ovechkin was asked if acquiring Crosby or Evgeni Malkin would improve the Capitals’ Stanley Cup chances.
The question was framed as follows:
“If Washington makes trades and Evgeni Malkin or Sidney Crosby come to you, will that increase your chances of winning the Stanley Cup?”
Ovechkin replied,
“If this happens, it would be wonderful. If not, we will fight on our own.”
His response acknowledged the potential impact of such a trade while affirming the team’s determination to succeed regardless.
The rumor that the Penguins might trade both Malkin and Crosby has gained traction, especially after Malkin announced the 2025-26 season would likely be his final one. While it remains uncertain whether Washington would be the destination for either player, Ovechkin’s longstanding rivalry-turned-friendship with Crosby and Malkin adds an intriguing dynamic to the speculation.
Ovechkin, now preparing for his 40th season and final year under his current contract, has not suggested any plans to retire, keeping the Capitals’ future roster possibilities open.
The Implications for Sidney Crosby’s Career and Penguins’ Rebuild
Sidney Crosby’s commitment to stay with the Pittsburgh Penguins despite rumors offers some stability as the team navigates a potential rebuild. His presence remains vital for the franchise, both on and off the ice, given his leadership and history, including multiple Stanley Cup victories.
As trade discussions persist across the NHL, Lewis-McDougal’s firm stance signals that Crosby’s chapter in Pittsburgh is unlikely to end prematurely. Fans and analysts will watch closely as the contract timelines and team strategies unfold in the coming seasons, but for now, Sidney Crosby’s Pittsburgh Penguins future appears firmly in place.