Sidney Crosby’s contract situation is making Pittsburgh Penguins fans nervous.
Crosby spoke at the NHL North American Player Media Tour, saying he’s optimistic about signing an extension before becoming a free agent next July. “I’m pretty optimistic it’s going to get done,” Crosby said, according to Josh Yohe of The Athletic. He mentioned that talks have been positive and not too difficult.
Many thought Crosby’s new contract would be announced on his 37th birthday, August 7 (8/7), but that didn’t happen. Some now wonder if he’s reconsidering staying with the Penguins after they missed the playoffs for two seasons in a row. As of Tuesday morning, DraftKings Sportsbook had the Penguins at +120 odds to make the playoffs next season. Crosby commented on Kyle Dubas starting a roster rebuild: “I mean, I want to win every time I step onto the ice,” he said .
Contract Talks and Team Future
Fans might think this uncertainty is stressful because they want their star player to stay forever. Last season, Crosby tied for 12th in the league with 94 points and tied for 11th with 42 goals, according to ESPN stats. The three-time Stanley Cup winner said he wants to keep playing as long as possible, ideally with the Penguins. He added that he still feels great physically and has the same passion as when he started in the league.
But questions remain if this passion might lead him to join another team midseason if things don’t go well for Pittsburgh this year.
What do you think? Should Crosby stay or go?
