Sidney Crosby Extends Journey with Pittsburgh Penguins
Sidney Crosby's illustrious career with the Pittsburgh Penguins has been extended through the 2026-27 season. The announcement comes as a relief to Penguins fans and marks another chapter in the storied career of the 36-year-old forward, who has become synonymous with the franchise since being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2005 NHL Draft.
The new contract carries an annual average value of $8.7 million, keeping Crosby at the forefront of the Penguins' quest for additional Stanley Cup titles. This extension holds symbolic significance as well, reflecting Crosby’s longstanding commitment to the team and city that have witnessed his transformation into one of hockey’s all-time greats.
Penguins' President of Hockey Operations, Kyle Dubas, emphasized Crosby's immense impact, stating, “There are no words to properly describe what Sidney Crosby means to the game of hockey, the city of Pittsburgh, and the Penguins organization.”
As Crosby prepares for his 20th season with the Penguins, his legacy is already cemented. He has led Pittsburgh to three Stanley Cup titles and appeared in 10 All-Star Games. Crosby has also won two Hart Trophies as the league's most valuable player and two Conn Smythe Trophies as the playoff MVP. These accolades are a testament to his standing as one of the preeminent figures in the sport.
Throughout his career, Crosby has demonstrated remarkable consistency and dedication. He 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 franchise history—trailing only Mario Lemieux—in goals (592), assists (1,004), and points (1,596). Moreover, he stands 10th in NHL history with 1,596 points in 1,272 career games, underscoring his status among the game's elite.
Dubas further praised Crosby’s leadership and selflessness: “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.”
Last season, Crosby maintained his high level of performance, playing all 82 regular-season games and amassing 94 points (42 goals, 52 assists). Despite his contributions, the Penguins missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs in each of the last two seasons, highlighting the challenges that lie ahead for the team. Crosby’s consistent production—averaging at least one point per game for all 19 of his professional seasons—remains a beacon for the team’s aspirations.
The extension also reflects Crosby's role as an enduring figure of stability and aspiration within the franchise. As the Penguins aim to return to the playoffs and contend for future championships, Crosby’s presence provides a core around which the team can build and develop.
In light of the new contract, Penguins fans and the broader hockey community can anticipate more chapters in the storied career of Sidney Crosby. His unwavering dedication to Pittsburgh continues to inspire, and his on-ice brilliance ensures that each game he plays will be a must-watch event.
As the Penguins prepare for the upcoming season, bolstered by the assurance of Crosby’s continued leadership, the city of Pittsburgh and hockey fans around the globe are reminded of the rare combination of skill, commitment, and heart that defines Sidney Crosby's legendary career.