The Pittsburgh Penguins and their captain Sidney Crosby are nearing completion on a new contract, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. Both the team and Crosby are optimistic about finalizing the deal soon, as reported by The Athletic.
Throughout discussions, Crosby and his longtime agent, Pat Brisson, have maintained confidentiality regarding talks with Penguins’ general manager and president of hockey operations, Kyle Dubas. Sources indicate that Crosby has reiterated his desire to conclude his career with the Penguins, the team that drafted him first overall in 2005. The potential agreement is seen by insiders as a mutual commitment to Pittsburgh, reflecting Crosby’s dedication to remaining a Penguin for life.
Approaching his 37th birthday, Crosby remains steadfast in his commitment to the team despite recent seasons without playoff appearances and limited roster improvements in the current offseason under Dubas’ leadership. Earlier reports suggested a contract duration of around three years with a possible average annual value close to $10 million, although specific financial details were not disclosed to The Athletic.
Given Crosby’s age, any new contract would fall under the “35-plus contract” category, similar to teammate Evgeni Malkin’s recent deal, which prevents salary-cap manipulation beyond certain limits as per NHL rules. This consideration adds a layer of complexity not previously encountered by Penguins’ management.
Crosby’s past contracts, notably frontloaded to accommodate salary-cap management, have reflected his commitment to team success over personal gain, allowing flexibility to build competitive rosters around him. Despite recent challenges, Dubas has expressed his intent not to undergo a full rebuilding phase but to restore the team’s status as a playoff contender with Crosby as a pivotal figure.
The Penguins’ core, including Crosby, Malkin, and others, faces challenges related to age and roster depth, yet the team remains focused on competitive aspirations rather than a complete overhaul.
