The Pittsburgh Penguins are quietly putting together a respectable season as they continue navigating life during a soft rebuild. They currently sit fifth in the Metropolitan Division with a 21-14-9 record. While they’ve dropped back-to-back games, Pittsburgh had won five straight before that brief slide.
Sidney Crosby remains a major reason the Penguins are still battling for a postseason spot, and now an NHL insider has offered some clarity on where things stand with the captain’s contract situation.
Pittsburgh Penguins Insider Addresses Sidney Crosby Contract Talk
Crosby is playing under a two-year, $17.4 million contract extension. The deal carries an $8.7 million average annual value and runs through the 2026–27 season, while also including a full no-movement clause. He will be eligible to sign another extension starting July 1.
Insider Josh Yohe of The Athletic recently shared his thoughts on Crosby’s future and the likelihood of a new deal being finalized anytime soon. “I wouldn’t expect any news on that front on July 1,” Yohe said. “And remember, he will be 39 this summer, so he may be at a stage in his life where he doesn’t necessarily wish to sign multi-year contracts, nor sign one before it’s necessary.“
Signing a two-year deal this summer would essentially confirm Crosby’s intention to play at least three more seasons in Pittsburgh.
Trade speculation surrounding Crosby emerged in recent years, following the Penguins’ three consecutive playoff misses. This season feels like a different story. The Penguins are just two points shy of a Wild Card spot. And a return to the playoffs would only reinforce the likelihood of Crosby continuing his career in Pittsburgh.
“Do I think he’ll play three more seasons after this one? I think there’s a real chance,” Yohe added. “His quality performance, the Penguins’ surprisingly good season and president/GM Kyle Dubas’ roster management all help the cause.”
Crosby is still setting the pace for Pittsburgh’s offense. He leads the team with 49 points in 44 games. Even so, Yohe suggested a wait-and-see approach is the most realistic path forward. With an Olympic season on the horizon, Crosby will want to see how his body holds up before committing to anything long-term.
While fans may hope Crosby plays forever, Yohe reminded everyone that those decisions are deeply personal. “I suspect he will play another two or three seasons after this one. But rushing into a contract isn’t likely,” Yohe said.
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For now, Crosby and the Penguins will look to get back in the win column when they face the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday.
