NHL News: Sidney Crosby has a huge reason not to part ways with Penguins

Sidney Crosby is one of the major talking points on social media following the start of NHL free agency. Although all signs point to him staying with the Pittsburgh Penguins, some reports have cast doubt on his future.

The Penguins legend became a trending topic just a few days ago when several rumors suggested he might leave the team to join a contender. Even his close friend, Nathan MacKinnon, had to step in to dismiss the idea that the Colorado Avalanche was an option.

There’s no doubt that, following the contract extension for Brad Marchand with the Florida Panthers, Crosby could take the spotlight as the most important story to watch in the coming days. However, one key reason might serve as the incentive for him to stay in Pittsburgh.

Is Sidney Crosby retiring with Penguins?

Sidney Crosby intends to retire as a member of the Pittsburgh Penguins, but at 37 years old, the final stretch of his career will largely depend on the team building a competitive roster capable of contending for the Stanley Cup.

If Crosby’s window is around three years, one key factor that could give him peace of mind about his future is the large number of draft picks the Penguins have accumulated through various moves by general manager Kyle Dubas.

see also

NHL News: Sidney Crosby’s agent confirms if Penguins star will part ways with Pittsburgh

The Penguins hold 28 draft picks over the next three NHL Drafts, with 16 of those selections coming in the first three rounds. The breakdown of those picks is a strong reason for optimism.

Is Sidney Crosby still a Penguin?

Yes. Sidney Crosby is still a Penguin, and this list of future draft picks could be one of the reasons why the legend believes Pittsburgh offers the kind of reassurance he’s looking for as he approaches the end of his career.

In 2026, they currently hold one first-round pick, three second-rounders, and two third-round picks, along with additional selections spread across later rounds.

see also

NHL News: Is Sidney Crosby leaving the Penguins?

For 2027, the team is positioned with one pick in the first round, two in the second, and three in the third, while also maintaining selections in nearly every round.

In 2028, the Penguins possess one pick in the first round, one in the second, and two in the third, complemented again by multiple later-round picks. This wealth of draft capital across all levels gives Pittsburgh flexibility for either building through youth or making aggressive moves via trades.