Sidney Crosby had much to share about his future on Friday, but he remained tight-lipped about his contract status.
In a video conference discussing his selection to Canada’s roster for the 2024-25 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, Crosby briefly touched on the possibility of a contract extension with the Pittsburgh Penguins, but he avoided specifics.
Crosby confirmed that he and his agent, Pat Brisson, have had initial discussions with Penguins president of hockey operations Kyle Dubas. However, he chose not to reveal details.
“There’s been a little bit of talk with the draft and free agency,” Crosby said. “I’ll keep those discussions between Kyle and me, but we’ve had conversations. I’ll just leave it at that.”
Entering the final season of a 12-year contract signed in 2012, Crosby is eligible to sign an extension on Monday, according to NHL rules. Given his aversion to change, a new deal seems likely.
Speculation surrounds the length of the potential contract, the salary cap hit—currently $8.7 million per season—and when he might sign.
“We’re talking,” Crosby reiterated. “We’ll see what happens.”
Looking ahead, Crosby will participate in the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, featuring teams from Canada, the United States, Finland, and Sweden. This round-robin event will occur during a break in the NHL schedule from February 12-20 in Boston and Montreal.
On Friday, six players for each team were announced. Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson was included on Sweden’s roster, with full rosters to follow.
Penguins coach Mike Sullivan will serve as head coach for the United States, as announced in May. This tournament will serve as a precursor to the 2026 Olympics in Italy.
“With all the teams, it will be good preparation, looking at players, line combinations, everything,” said Crosby, who led Canada to Olympic gold in 2010 and 2014. “Having the 4 Nations and the Olympics close together keeps the excitement fresh.”
Crosby expressed enthusiasm about potentially playing alongside fellow Nova Scotians Brad Marchand and Nathan MacKinnon. Both were named to Canada’s squad, along with Cale Makar, Connor McDavid, and Brayden Point.
“We’re proud guys,” Crosby said. “There’s a lot of pride being from Nova Scotia. Playing together for Canada is pretty special. It doesn’t happen every day, and we’re grateful.”
As he approaches his 37th birthday on August 7, Crosby acknowledges the fleeting nature of such opportunities.
“You want to take advantage of these chances,” he said. “Not having had this opportunity for a while makes you appreciate it more. And obviously, I’m not getting any younger.”
“Each opportunity becomes more special as time goes on.”
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