Alex Ovechkin’s bold response to fantasy trade linking Penguins stars Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin to Capitals

Fresh off a charity appearance in Moscow, Alex Ovechkin addressed an unlikely trade scenario that caught the attention of NHL fans and media alike. When asked whether acquiring the Pittsburgh Penguins’Sidney Crosbyor Evgeni Malkin could boost the Washington Capitals’ Stanley Cup hopes, the longtime captain didn’t shy away from the hypothetical.

The offseason has been full of questions surrounding Ovechkin’s future, including the timing of his retirement. But during an interview with Match TV following the “Match of the Year” charity game, the 38-year-old was met with a curveball—what if Washington traded for one of Pittsburgh’s franchise icons?

“If this happens, it would be wonderful. If not, we will fight on our own,” Ovechkin said, brushing off the idea with a mix of sarcasm and competitive fire.

Rumors swirl around Penguins’ aging core

The fantasy-trade question comes at a time when the Pittsburgh Penguins’ core of Crosby, Malkin, and Kris Letang is under renewed scrutiny. After missing the playoffs for a third consecutive season, speculation has grown regarding a possible rebuild in Pittsburgh. However, internal signals continue to suggest the organization will keep its veteran stars together for the foreseeable future.

Sidney Crosby #87 of the Pittsburgh Penguins skates against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on April 11, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Crosby, 37, is under contract through 2026 with a full no-movement clause, meaning any trade would require his full approval. Malkin, 38, enters the final year of his current deal, a four-year, $24.4 million contract. While Malkin has hinted at the possibility of retirement after next season, no official decision has been made. Despite the speculation, both players have repeatedly expressed their commitment to finishing their careers as Penguins.

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Capitals-Penguins blockbuster unlikely

Though Ovechkin and Crosby have shared a legendary rivalry defined by marquee matchups and mutual respect, a trade between the two Eastern Conference rivals appears to be nothing more than wishful thinking. The odds of Pittsburgh trading either Crosby or Malkin—let alone to Washington—are exceedingly slim.

Still, Ovechkin’s answer revealed the competitor within: he would welcome the reinforcements, but if not, he believes his current group has the grit to compete. “We will fight on our own,” he reiterated, staying true to the Capitals’ identity as they look to rebound next season.