Sidney Crosby reportedly nearing a split with Penguins as hockey world braces for potential franchise-altering trade news

For nearly two decades, Sidney Crosby has been the face of the Pittsburgh Penguins, but reports suggest the bond may finally be fraying. The franchise’s timeline no longer matches the ambitions of its captain, raising speculation that the three-time Stanley Cup champion could consider life outside the Black and Yellow.

While nothing appears imminent, insiders believe this is the closest Crosby has ever come to pondering a future away from Pittsburgh.

Sidney Crosby and the trade whispers

The thought of Crosby leaving Pittsburgh once felt impossible. Yet cracks are beginning to show. “I never thought a Crosby trade was imaginable. Now, I’m not so sure,” wrote The Athletic’s Josh Yohe, pointing to growing frustration with the Penguins’ struggles.

The Penguins, built on an aging core, no longer look like a contender.

Meanwhile, the NHL is watching closely, knowing that if Crosby ever gives the green light, a bidding war would erupt. Among potential destinations, the Montreal Canadiens stand out. Elliotte Friedman revealed on his 32 Thoughts Podcast that Montreal’s front office may already be shaping decisions with Crosby in mind, saying, “[Canadiens’] Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes are they sitting there and saying ‘we’re not doing anything with X player because we think it may prevent us from doing a Crosby deal‘.

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Montreal not only offers Crosby a shot at fulfilling his childhood dream but also the chance to mentor a young core hungry for playoff success. A move north would instantly inject leadership and championship pedigree into a team still learning to win.

What the future holds for Sidney Crosby

Despite the noise, a trade remains unlikely before the 2025-26 season. Crosby reportedly wants to finish this year alongside Evgeni Malkin, honoring their shared legacy in Pittsburgh.

At the same time, distractions from a move to a market like Montreal could pull focus away from his primary goal: representing Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics.The decision, whenever it comes, will not be taken lightly. Crosby has built his career on loyalty and excellence, but time is not on his side. The choice may eventually come down to chasing a final Stanley Cup or staying with the team that defined his career. Either way, when Sidney Crosby makes his move, the NHL will never look the same.Also Read: Oilers GM addresses Connor McDavid contract uncertainty, urges fans to avoid panic while stressing team’s championship priorities