What happens if the Penguins miss the Playoffs: This is what they need to do

Yost lays out an intriguing scenario that could become relevant if the Penguins miss the playoffs this season, even though he acknowledges that a trade for Crosby seems unlikely.

At the age of 37, Sidney Crosby is nearing the end of his contract and will be free to sign with any team come July 1. Travis Yost surmises that if the Penguins' chances of making the playoffs diminish, Crosby, who has one year left on his $8.7 million contract, might be amenable to a temporary transfer. The Penguins could then trade Crosby to give him a chance to contend for another Stanley Cup while preparing for their own rebuild.

Crosby has expressed no interest in leaving the Penguins and the city of Pittsburgh, but the fact remains that he has yet to sign a contract extension. Travis Yost speculates that a trade might be a win-win solution if the Penguins' chances of making the playoffs diminish. In exchange for allowing Crosby to return to Pittsburgh and finish his Penguin career, the Penguins may be able to salvage some priceless assets while maintaining the option of signing him again in free agency.

If Crosby were available, Yost said, a number of teams would be interested in signing him. Potential suitors include the Dallas Stars, Colorado Avalanche, Vegas Golden Knights, and Winnipeg Jets. These teams are in a position to contend for the Stanley Cup this season in addition to having the cap flexibility to pay Crosby's salary. Even as a rental player, acquiring Crosby would greatly increase their chances of making the playoffs.

Retaining a portion of Crosby's $8.7 million salary cap hit could improve the Penguins' offer and boost their return. According to Yost, trading Crosby would not be wise for Pittsburgh, especially if they plan to rebuild, unless they could obtain a valuable asset, such as a first-round pick or a top prospect.

For the Penguins, Crosby's situation poses a challenging conundrum. Is it better for them to focus on making the playoffs and wait for Crosby to return, or should they trade him to start a much-needed rebuild?

In any case, the Penguins' upcoming season will have an interesting new dimension thanks to this conjecture.

Source:
Columnist on Crosby Trade If Penguins Fall Out of Playoff Race

Source:
Considering an unlikely Crosby trade