As the Pittsburgh Penguins face a challenging future after missing the playoffs for three consecutive seasons, speculation about their iconic captain Sidney Crosby's potential departure is intensifying. NHL insider Nick Kypreos hinted that Crosby might be traded after the 2026 Winter Olympics, with the Montreal Canadiens emerging as a possible destination. Kypreos emphasized that Crosby remains too talented to merely guide a struggling franchise, suggesting it would be a disservice to his legacy.

Despite the Penguins' front office indicating they are not considering trades for Crosby or other core veterans, the team’s declining performance and aging roster, highlighted by Evgeni Malkin's impending 39th birthday, raises questions about their future direction. While no concrete trade discussions have been reported, Kypreos hinted that significant changes could be on the horizon, particularly if the Penguins seek to rebuild.