Montreal – Recent speculation has intensified regarding the possibility of Sidney Crosby, the Pittsburgh Penguins' captain, being traded to the Montreal Canadiens. Fueling this speculation is Canadiens analyst Tony Marinaro, who has expressed strong confidence that such a trade will occur.
Crosby's connection to Montreal is well-established. Growing up as a devoted Canadiens fan, his admiration for the team and city has always been apparent. The recurring rumors of Crosby potentially donning a Canadiens jersey have gained traction, especially considering the Penguins' current performance. The team is currently riding a seven-game losing streak, further stoking the flames of trade speculation.
Marinaro emphasized his conviction, stating, "When there's smoke, there's fire". He alluded to a source close to Crosby who suggested a year and a half ago that Crosby might conclude his career in Montreal. Marinaro believes that the determining factor hinges on whether the Penguins miss the playoffs for a fourth consecutive season. Should the Penguins be in a downward spiral by the trade deadline, Marinaro is confident Crosby will be traded.
Crosby is currently in the first year of a two-year, $17.4 million contract extension signed in 2024. Despite being 38 years old, he continues to perform at an elite level, amassing 35 points (19 goals, 16 assists) in the first 33 games of the 2025-26 season.
While Crosby's loyalty to the Penguins and his long-time teammates Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang has been a significant factor in the past, circumstances are evolving. Malkin appears to be nearing retirement, and Letang's performance has declined, potentially leading Crosby to reconsider his future. If Crosby decides to pursue a Stanley Cup with another team, Montreal would likely be a frontrunner. Crosby retains significant control over any potential move, which would favor the Canadiens if he chooses to leave Pittsburgh.
However, other analysts suggest that a trade is not a foregone conclusion. Sportsnet's Eric Engels has downplayed the rumors, stating there's no clear indication Crosby desires to leave Pittsburgh. He acknowledges that if Crosby were to consider a move, Montreal's abundant assets, including draft picks and prospects, would position them well to meet Pittsburgh's demands.
Previously, analysts have speculated on potential trade packages, with names like Lane Hutson or Ivan Demidov being mentioned as possible assets the Canadiens could offer. However, some argue that the trade would likely involve draft picks and prospects rather than established young stars.
The rumors surrounding a potential Crosby trade to Montreal are likely to persist as long as the Penguins' future remains uncertain. Whether Crosby will indeed finish his career with his childhood team remains to be seen, but the possibility continues to captivate fans and analysts alike.
