NHL News: Is Sidney Crosby leaving the Penguins?

Sidney Crosby has unexpectedly surfaced in NHL trade rumors, sparking heated debate about the future of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ longtime captain. While whispers of a possible exit have circulated before, recent comments from former NHL player Georges Laraque have given the speculation new life. However, strong denials from those closest to Crosby suggest the rumors may be more fiction than fact.

Laraque stated there’s a real chance Sidney Crosby could be traded by the Penguins before the upcoming deadline. He pointed to Pittsburgh’s decline—missing the playoffs three seasons in a row—and questioned whether a proven winner like Crosby would want to finish his career on a struggling team.

“After three Cups, does he want to end his career missing the playoffs four years in a row?” Laraque asked, adding that Crosby’s appearance at the World Championship this year speaks to his continued hunger to compete.

What’s next for Sidney Crosby?

Laraque’s words hit a nerve with fans and insiders alike, as the idea of Crosby wearing a different jersey is almost unthinkable in Pittsburgh. Still, the argument that Crosby may want to chase one more Stanley Cup with a true contender isn’t easily dismissed, especially as the Penguins approach a potential rebuild.

Not long after Laraque’s remarks went public, Crosby’s agent, Pat Brisson, addressed the situation directly. In an interview with The Athletic, Brisson called the rumors “completely baseless” and made it clear that Crosby has no intention of leaving the Penguins.

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Is Sidney Crosby getting traded by Penguins?

Brisson’s comments emphasized that despite Pittsburgh’s recent struggles, there are no current plans for the star forward to part ways with the only NHL team he’s ever played for. Brisson’s statement was firm, putting to rest any suggestion that Crosby had requested or even considered a trade.

Adding to the pushback, Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon—one of Crosby’s closest friends—stepped in to squash the speculation. MacKinnon publicly called the trade talk “fake news,” further reinforcing the idea that the rumors are unfounded.

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Is Sidney Crosby retiring?

Sidney Crosby is not retiring. MacKinnon’s brief but pointed reaction echoed the sentiment of many around the league who see Crosby not just as a Penguins legend, but as someone fully committed to finishing his career in Pittsburgh fulfilling his contract.

While the idea of a Crosby trade may make for an intriguing storyline, the reality is far more stable. The Penguins’ front office, Crosby’s agent, and even his inner circle all appear aligned in their message: Sidney Crosby is not leaving.

Still, the situation reflects the tension surrounding Pittsburgh’s current trajectory. If the team continues to miss the playoffs, speculation is likely to return—especially as Crosby enters the final stretch of his career.