Sidney Crosby trade rumors intensify as Canadiens and Avalanche emerge as top contenders | NHL News
Sidney Crosby has been the face of the Pittsburgh Penguins for nearly two decades, but the latest NHL trade rumors suggest a potential shift. Despite being under contract through the 2026-27 season, the future of the 37-year-old Penguins captain is once again under heavy speculation—especially with the Montreal Canadiens and Colorado Avalanche emerging as serious contenders.
Penguins rebuild raises questions about Sidney Crosby’s future
Crosby’s longtime teammate Evgeni Malkin is entering the final year of his four-year, $24.4 million deal, and insiders believe the Penguins may not extend him. This has fueled speculation that a full rebuild is on the horizon. In 2022, Malkin hinted at the transition, saying, “If this team wants new blood… we will see.”Greg Wyshynski of ESPN recently added fuel to the fire by predicting that if the Penguins struggle early in the 2025-26 season, Crosby could be moved before the trade deadline. Although Crosby has not publicly expressed a desire to leave, his silence hasn’t stopped NHL insiders and fans from speculating.
Crosby linked to Canadiens and Avalanche amid escalating NHL trade rumors
According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, multiple teams have shown interest in acquiring Crosby, but two names keep resurfacing—the Montreal Canadiens and the Colorado Avalanche.The Avalanche connection stems from Crosby’s close friendship with Nathan MacKinnon. The duo recently led Team Canada to victory at the 4 Nations Face-Off, reigniting buzz about reuniting in Colorado. However, MacKinnon recently shut down rumors of Crosby joining the Avs, calling it fake news.Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens appear to be a more realistic destination. Crosby, a Nova Scotia native, grew up idolizing the Habs, and multiple analysts—including Wyshynski and Nick Kypreos—believe Montreal could be his final NHL stop after the 2026 Winter Olympics.Also Read: Sidney Crosby trade rumors explode as NHL legend helps friend join Blue Jackets, fueling Penguins exit buzz
Sidney Crosby remains committed to Penguins amid intensifying trade rumors
Despite the mounting trade buzz, Crosby has remained focused on the ice. He told reporters, “I just try to prepare for the next one.” But with the Penguins facing a likely rebuild and Malkin possibly on the way out, Crosby’s future may no longer be as secure as it once seemed.
