For years, Sidney Crosby has been the heart and soul of the Pittsburgh Penguins—a symbol of loyalty, leadership, and championship pedigree. But in a stunning twist, the winds of change are swirling through Pittsburgh, and the future of Crosby and his closest teammates is suddenly shrouded in uncertainty.

Recent reports suggest that the Penguins’ front office, led by GM Kyle Dubas, is steering the team towards a full-scale rebuild, even if it means leaving their legendary captain behind.

Trade rumors have begun to swirl, with Crosby’s name unexpectedly linked to the Montreal Canadiens and whispers of a seismic shift echoing throughout the NHL. What’s truly happening behind the scenes?

Why are the Penguins seemingly pushing Crosby away, despite his simple wish to keep his trusted teammates and chase one last competitive run?

And what does this mean for other stars like Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang, and Bryan Rust—players who have defined an era in Pittsburgh?

In this article, we’ll unravel the latest developments, explore the motivations behind the Penguins’ bold new direction, and examine how these decisions could reshape the futures of both franchises.

The story is far from over—and its most shocking chapters may still be ahead.

Apr 13, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Rickard Rakell (67) and center Sidney Crosby (87) and center Evgeni Malkin (71) talk before a face-off against the Boston Bruins during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

The name of Sidney Crosby has been linked to the Montreal Canadiens for a few weeks now, as his name keeps coming up in trade rumors.

Let’s just say that, despite his absolutely incredible loyalty, it seems like the Pittsburgh Penguins are doing everything they can to push him to leave.

Crosby wasn’t asking for much.. He simply wanted to ideally keep his closest teammates with him (Malkin, Letang, Rust, etc.), and he just wanted to try to have as competitive a team as possible.

However, Penguins GM Kyle Dubas has completely different plans.

The Penguins refuse to give Sidney Crosby one last competitive team, and Kyle Dubas wants to tear everything down

That’s what excellent Pittsburgh journalist Josh Yohe is reporting.

Josh Yohe: Re Penguins: “A big trade or two feels likely before training camp.”

“Dubas hasn’t received offers that meet his liking yet but he is fully committed to a rebuild”

– The Athletic

The Penguins are therefore clearly heading toward a total and complete rebuild, unfortunately for number 87.

“Dubas is fully committed to a rebuild!”

Among the players likely to leave Pittsburgh-and who are very close to Crosby-we notably find Bryan Rust, Evgeni Malkin, and the Quebec-born defenseman Kris Letang.

Kent Hughes therefore has the confirmation he was waiting for, if he wanted to try to acquire a player from the Penguins: they’re all available!

Aside from number 87, who is the obvious answer, which one do you think is the most interesting for the Montreal Canadiens?