Sidney Crosby Signs Contract Extension with Pittsburgh Penguins through 2026-27 Season
In a move that underscores his unwavering commitment to the Pittsburgh Penguins, Sidney Crosby has extended his contract through the 2026-27 season. This new deal, which carries an annual average value of $8.7 million, ensures that the Penguins' captain will remain with the team well into his late thirties. Crosby, now 36, was previously set to enter free agency at the end of the 2024-25 season.
Having been a central figure in Pittsburgh since his debut, Crosby is about to embark on his 20th season with the franchise. He was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2005 NHL Draft and has since established himself as one of the preeminent players in the history of the sport. His contributions have been instrumental in leading the Penguins to three Stanley Cup titles.
Penguins President of Hockey Operations, Kyle Dubas, did not mince words when reflecting on Crosby’s importance. “There are no words to properly describe what Sidney Crosby means to the game of hockey, the city of Pittsburgh, and the Penguins organization,” Dubas stated. He further added, “Sidney is the greatest player of his generation and one of the greatest players in the history of the game. His actions today show why he is one of hockey's greatest winners and leaders. Sid is making a tremendous personal sacrifice in an effort to help the Penguins win, both now and in the future, as he has done for his entire career.”
Crosby's on-ice achievements are well-documented. He has appeared in 10 All-Star Games and has won two Hart Trophies as the league's most valuable player. Additionally, his performances during the playoffs have earned him two Conn Smythe Trophies as the playoff MVP.
Statistically, Crosby's impact is remarkable. He currently leads the franchise in games played (1,272), even-strength goals (416), even-strength points (1,025), and game-winning goals (90). He is second in goals (592), assists (1,004), and points (1,596) for the franchise, trailing only the legendary Mario Lemieux. Impressively, Crosby ranks 10th in NHL history with 1,596 points in 1,272 career games, and he has averaged at least one point per season for all 19 of his professional seasons.
Last season, Crosby continued to be a dominant force on the ice, playing in all 82 regular-season games and recording 94 points (42 goals, 52 assists). However, despite his stellar performance, the Penguins missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the second consecutive season, a disappointment that undoubtedly weighs heavily on the team's leadership and fanbase.
As the Penguins look to the future, Crosby's extension brings stability and leadership to the locker room. It is clear that his presence both on and off the ice continues to be invaluable. His willingness to make personal sacrifices for the betterment of the team highlights a selflessness that is rare among elite athletes.
With this extension, Crosby and the Penguins have reaffirmed their mutual dedication. As fans eagerly await the upcoming season, there is a renewed sense of hope that Crosby can lead Pittsburgh back to playoff prominence and perhaps add another chapter to his already illustrious career.