The Pittsburgh Penguins stumbled out of the gate in their preseason opener. Despite hopes of building early momentum, the franchise has dropped consecutive games to both the Canadiens and Blue Jackets to start the exhibition schedule.
And with every loss, whispers of a big chunk of the Penguins roster landing on the trade block get louder. However, while GM Kyle Dubas has made his desire to trade his veterans for the right price clear, the decision might not sit right with Sidney Crosby.
Penguins’ Rebuild Approach May Put Sidney Crosby in an Uncomfortable Position
It’s no secret that GM Kyle Dubas is willing to move names like Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell to inject new talent into the roster for a legitimate rebuild. Dubas has essentially made it clear that every veteran except Crosby is available… for a price.
So far, no offers have been made for either Rust or Rakell. However, one insider believes that moving the duo may not be in the Penguins’ best interest if the franchise hopes to keep its captain and franchise icon satisfied.
When asked about the situation by a fan, The Athletic’s Josh Yohe reinforced the point. He explained that Crosby is not someone who embraces change, and his agent’s recent remarks should be read as a loud and clear signal not to move Rust or Rakell.
Good morning. Here’s my latest mailbag on a number of Penguins topics: https://t.co/k9dyJ1YL7Z
— Josh Yohe (@JoshYohe_PGH) September 25, 2025
“Pat Brisson said plenty of interesting things during his interview with Pierre LeBrun. I sense that Brisson probably would have handled some things differently if he could turn back time,” Yohe wrote. “I also think Brisson will be very unhappy if the Penguins trade Rakell or Rust.”
While the Penguins could use some fresh faces, Yohe believes both Crosby and Brisson would be strongly opposed to seeing Rust or Rakell leave Pittsburgh. Yohe suggested that, if given the chance, Brisson might have phrased his comments differently.
The same goes for longtime center and franchise legend Evgeni Malkin. Although he noted last week that he would be open to waiving his no-move clause if the team stumbles out of the gate, Yohe believes Malkin ultimately wants to finish his NHL career in Pittsburgh.
Yohe added, “I don’t think there’s much question that Sidney Crosby won’t be thrilled if either of his wingers leaves town.” In his view, while Dubas is likely to make significant moves, they will come with some tough decisions.
“Dubas works for the Penguins, not for Brisson, so I believe he will act accordingly,” Yohe wrote. “But still, no one wants to make Crosby unhappy. It’s not an easy situation for anyone.” Despite Brisson’s comments, Yohe emphasized that Crosby isn’t going anywhere.
And Yohe believes the same holds for Malkin. “I’d also be surprised if Evgeni Malkin were to be dealt,” he wrote. While Malkin has heard the rumblings of these trade rumors, he also made it crystal clear that he wants to stay put in Pittsburgh and give back to the franchise in his twilight years.
