Overview

• Crosby said he understands the rumors and called trade talk “the hard part about losing,” while stressing it does not change his approach to competing in Pittsburgh.
• Agent Pat Brisson told The Athletic a trade is “always a possibility,” tying any decision to Crosby’s wishes and the Penguins’ performance, and noting a desire for him to play playoff hockey and chase more Cups.
• Crosby, 38, is signed through 2026‑27 at a $8.7 million AAV and holds a full no‑movement clause that gives him control over any potential move.
• The Penguins have missed the playoffs three straight years and are widely viewed as rebuilding, even as GM Kyle Dubas says the focus remains on returning to contention.
• Insiders see little chance of an early‑season blockbuster, with Colorado and Montreal often cited in speculation, and Crosby maintaining he intends to keep trying to win in Pittsburgh for now.