Sidney Crosby's Departure Hinted by Pittsburgh Penguins Insider

Rob Rossi, a trusted source on the Pittsburgh Penguins has suggested a scenario where Sidney Crosby might part ways with the team when his contract ends.

As the first overall pick in 2005, Crosby has been a key player for the Penguins for almost two decades, achieving remarkable success with three Stanley Cup wins and numerous individual accolades. He has solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players in NHL history. He holds a special place among the top Penguins players to have graced the ice.

However, as Crosby and his longtime teammates Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang age, and their performance declines, there is uncertainty about Crosby's future with the team beyond July 1st.

«Crosby is not necessarily seeking his final NHL contract. However, he also hasn't set a firm date for when he plans to retire, so a shorter-term deal than he's signed in the past is appealing, a source said.»

The likelihood now is that Crosby may sign contracts of one or two years, giving him flexibility to explore opportunities with other teams if the Penguins performance doesn't meet expectations. Speculations suggest interest from teams, like Montreal Canadiens or Colorado Avalanche if he decides to move on.

With Evgeni Malkin likely retiring in a couple of years, the Penguins should have funds to retain Crosby. The real question is whether they'll have a team to support him.

«As previously reported, Crosby may command a higher cap hit than the $8.7 million from each of his past 16 seasons. But his new contract will not go into effect until 2025-26, and the Penguins project to have considerably more cap space to work with for that season and beyond � in part because the cap is expected to exceed $90 million by then, and also due to Malkin's anticipated retirement after his current contract expires.»

Previously on Hockey Trade Rumours

The NHL to reach a verdict on four players implicated in the 2018 WJC scandal

Winnipeg Jets' former coach Richard Bue passes away

Drake places a significant bet on the NHL Stanley Cup Final

POLL
7 JUIN \| 349 ANSWERS Sidney Crosby's Departure Hinted by Pittsburgh Penguins Insider Do you believe Sidney Crosby will stay with the Pittsburgh Penguins and retire as a part of the team?
Yes	284	81.4 %
No	65	18.6 %
LIST OF POLLS