As Sidney Crosby celebrates his 38th birthday today, the Pittsburgh Penguins captain finds himself at a career crossroads. While the future Hall of Famer is still performing at an elite level, the team's trajectory points towards a rebuild, leading to speculation about Crosby's future and whether he might seek a trade to contend for another Stanley Cup.
For now, at least, those trade rumors have been put to rest. According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, Crosby will start the 2025-26 season with the Penguins. Friedman's definitive statement should quell the months of speculation that had Crosby potentially leaving Pittsburgh, perhaps to join a team in his home country of Canada.
Despite the Penguins' current situation, Crosby's commitment to the team remains strong. He signed a two-year, $17.4 million contract extension last summer that includes a full no-move clause, giving him complete control over his destination. Simply put, Crosby won't be going anywhere unless he personally requests a trade.
The Penguins are not seen as a top contender for the Stanley Cup, and their offseason moves suggest a willingness to rebuild. This creates a complex situation with Crosby, who still has a strong desire to win at the highest level. While he would likely prefer to stay in Pittsburgh for his entire career, the possibility of a trade could linger if the team struggles.
Crosby is entering his 21st season with the Penguins, a remarkable run that has seen him win three Stanley Cups (2009, 2016, 2017), two Hart Trophies as the league's most valuable player, two Conn Smythe Trophies as the playoff MVP, and two Art Ross Trophies as the league's leading scorer. He has also won two Olympic gold medals with Canada, including scoring the game-winning goal in overtime against the United States in the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Even at 37, Crosby continues to defy Father Time. In the 2024-25 season, he recorded 33 goals and 58 assists for 91 points in 80 games. He also surpassed the 600-goal mark and 1,600 career points, further solidifying his place among hockey's all-time greats. Over his NHL career, Crosby has amassed 625 goals and 1,062 assists for 1,687 points in 1,352 regular-season games. In the playoffs, he has 71 goals and 130 assists for 201 points in 180 games.
Looking ahead, questions about Crosby's eventual retirement are starting to surface. While he has made it clear that coaching is unlikely, there is speculation that he could take on a front-office role or even have a future ownership stake with the Penguins. Penguins insider Josh Yohe has suggested that Crosby could retire after the 2028-29 season. Crosby's decision will significantly impact the Penguins' future, both in the short and long term. If he remains with the team, he can help develop young prospects and inspire the next generation of players in Pittsburgh.
For now, Crosby remains focused on the present and continuing to lead the Penguins. As he enters his 38th year, his legacy as one of the greatest hockey players of all time is already secure.
