The NHL world is buzzing with speculation as one of the league’s most iconic players, Sidney Crosby, finds himself at the center of swirling trade rumors. With the Pittsburgh Penguins facing an uncertain future and whispers of a full rebuild growing louder, questions about Crosby’s next chapter have never felt more pressing. While the idea of Crosby leaving the only NHL team he’s ever known once seemed unthinkable, recent developments suggest that change could be on the horizon.

Across the league, fans and analysts alike are captivated by the possibility of the legendary No. 87 donning a new jersey, especially with reports hinting at a shortlist of preferred destinations. Among those rumored teams, the Montreal Canadiens stand out as a particularly intriguing fit, given Crosby’s lifelong admiration for the franchise and his fondness for playing at the Bell Centre. As the offseason unfolds and the Penguins chart their course, all eyes are on Crosby and the tantalizing prospect of a blockbuster move that could reshape the landscape of the NHL.

Photo credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

One of the top priorities for the Montreal Canadiens is without a doubt finding a second-line center. Slowly but surely, the stars seem to be aligning for that player to possibly be Sidney Crosby..

Before jumping for joy, it must be said that the chances of such a move happening are very slim.

But according to what Renaud Lavoie has reported, the possibility is still there.

The situation in Pittsburgh is rather unique.

The team is far from being a serious contender and doesn’t have the tools to pull off a “rebuild on the fly.”

Everything seems to be pointing toward a full rebuild – something Crosby might not appreciate given his age.

Let’s not forget the arrival of a new head coach, which could play a major role in the Penguins captain’s decision to stay or go..

“Are the Penguins rebuilding?

If the answer is yes, does Crosby want to be part of it?

The Canadiens must be in the race if Crosby decides to accept a trade.”

– Renaud Lavoie

A Three-Team List for Sidney Crosby?

Let’s be real – if Crosby agrees to move, all 31 other teams would show interest.

His experience, leadership, and still-elite level of play would make him an extremely sought-after player.

But Lavoie clarified that the veteran will have the final say on where he goes, should he accept a trade.

A list of three teams is reportedly already in the mind of the star center, and Montreal could very well be one of them.

“Crosby will likely have a list of three teams.

We know he has interest in Montreal.

He has always said the Bell Centre is his favorite place to play outside of Pittsburgh.”

– Renaud Lavoie

The Bell Centre to Convince No. 87?

Several times throughout his career, Crosby has mentioned that the Bell Centre is one of his favorite arenas.

Not to mention, he grew up a Canadiens fan and has never hidden his desire to one day play for the team.

“He has always said the Bell Centre is his favorite place to play outside of Pittsburgh.”
– Renaud Lavoie

Just imagine if Kent Hughes pulled off the impossible and traded for Crosby.

He would be a perfect fit on the second line with Ivan Demidov, in addition to being an incredible role model.

It’s nice to dream!

The other two teams on his list, according to the same rumor, would be the Colorado Avalanche and the Los Angeles Kings.

To be continued!