Cranberry Township, Pa. — Even after decades in the NHL, Sidney Crosby often reflects on his initial years when every Pittsburgh Penguins training camp demanded proof of his abilities, especially as a new season approaches.
Those formative years are long past. However, on Thursday, the Penguins` captain, nearing his 38th birthday and with noticeable gray hairs, still displayed his characteristic enthusiasm, smiling even after strenuous laps during the first practice of his 21st professional season.
Crosby emphasized the importance of maintaining such zeal, stating, “I remember being that passionate rookie, and I genuinely hope I still embody some of that spirit, despite my extensive career.”
Nevertheless, an unavoidable question continues to follow Crosby and the team: How much longer will this tenure last?
The Unresolved Future
The celebrated Hall of Fame bound player and three-time Stanley Cup winner is contracted through the upcoming season and has firmly asserted his commitment to Pittsburgh, the sole NHL city he has ever represented. This commitment holds even as the Penguins navigate a rebuilding phase, for which General Manager Kyle Dubas has refrained from providing a definitive timeline.
Pittsburgh has not qualified for the playoffs since 2022, nor secured a playoff series victory since 2018. Consequently, external expectations remain subdued after an offseason marked by minimal changes, save for the appointment of Dan Muse as head coach, replacing Mike Sullivan, who departed for the New York Rangers.
Duncan Priestley