Crosby Acknowledges Montreal Trade Speculation, Agent Hints at Future Considerations
MONTREAL – Sidney Crosby has publicly addressed ongoing rumors linking him to the Montreal Canadiens, acknowledging the speculation as understandable given the team’s passionate fanbase and his own desire to compete in the playoffs. The Pittsburgh Penguins captain revealed his awareness of the chatter surrounding a potential move to Montreal, a city where he received a warm reception during February’s 4 Nations Face-Off at the Bell Center.
Crosby, a longtime supporter of the Canadiens growing up, stated he “understands why it happens,” recognizing Montreal’s deep hockey culture and the appeal of playing for such a storied franchise. However, he admitted that the trade talk is made more challenging by his team’s recent struggles. “Hearing all that makes it even harder to lose,” Crosby said, while also conceding, “Simultaneously occurring, knowing that a team like that wants you isn’t the end of the world.”
The discussion surrounding Crosby’s future has intensified as the Penguins have missed the playoffs for three consecutive seasons.His agent, Quebec native Pat Brisson, confirmed that the lack of postseason hockey is weighing on Crosby, who aspires to contend for the Stanley Cup in the remaining years of his career. “It’s a reality,” Brisson admitted. “We want Sidney to play in the playoffs every year. We’d like him to win the Cup one or two more times.”
Brisson did not rule out the possibility of Crosby eventually considering a change of scenery, stating, “It’s always a possibility, you know. they haven’t reached the playoffs in the last three years. It depends on how Sid and the team go. But I maintain that he should play in the playoffs every year. That’s my opinion.” while Crosby has expressed a preference to remain with the Penguins throughout his career, the ongoing playoff drought is fueling speculation and opening the door to potential discussions about his future.
