NHL star Sidney Crosby reportedly growing frustrated by persistent trade buzz and speculation surrounding Penguins

As the 2025–26 NHLseason gets underway, uncertainty surrounds the future of the Pittsburgh Penguins. After missing the playoffs last year and facing an aging roster, the team is under scrutiny, and naturally, questions have emerged about their long-time captain, Sidney Crosby. At 37 years old, Crosby remains one of the most respected figures in hockey, but some wonder if it’s time for a fresh start elsewhere.

Crosby has spent his entire career with the Penguins since being drafted first overall in 2005. He’s won three Stanley Cups, earned two MVP awards, and established himself as one of the greatest players in NHL history. Through it all, he’s remained loyal to Pittsburgh — not just on the ice, but off it, avoiding drama and keeping his future plans private.

But now, as trade rumors swirl, frustration is bubbling to the surface. During the latest episode of the 32 Thoughts Podcast, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman shared what he heard from someone close to Crosby’s inner circle:

“I know everyone asks about Sidney Crosby; I’ve said people in Crosby’s orbit want him to go; Crosby hates it when this stuff starts; someone said to me if you really want Crosby to leave, don’t talk about it.”

What’s fueling Crosby’s discomfort?

According to Friedman, Crosby is bothered not necessarily by the idea of leaving — but by how often it’s being talked about. He’s someone who values discretion, and public speculation goes against how he typically operates. His discomfort suggests that media chatter may actually dissuade him from considering options outside of Pittsburgh.

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Throughout his career, Crosby has handled major decisions quietly and professionally. Whether it’s contract negotiations or team strategy, he’s never sought headlines or stirred controversy. The message now seems clear: if a trade were ever to happen, it won’t be triggered by external pressure or noise — and talking about it might only push him to stay put.

Is this the final chapter of Crosby’s Penguins legacy?

Crosby has one year remaining on his current contract, and while he’s still contributing at a high level, the Penguins as a whole appear to be entering a transitional phase. Analysts speculate that a move to a contender could give Crosby a final shot at the Stanley Cup — but only if he chooses it on his own terms.

For now, the captain continues to lead with class, commitment, and quiet conviction. And as Friedman’s source suggests, the more people talk about his possible exit, the less likely it becomes. If Crosby’s era in Pittsburgh ever ends, it’ll happen in the least dramatic way possible — because that’s how he’s always done things.