For Sidney Crosby, the early days of his NHL career with the Pittsburgh Penguins, when every training camp felt like an essential proving ground, remain a vivid memory, especially during this time of year.
Those initial years are long past. Yet, on Thursday, just a month shy of his 38th birthday and with notable gray strands in his hair, the Penguins` captain still radiated enthusiasm, managing a smile as he bent over his stick after completing a series of final laps at his 21st season`s first practice.
“Maintaining that excitement is crucial,” Crosby commented. “I distinctly recall being that energetic rookie, and I genuinely hope I still embody some of that spirit, despite my many years in the league.”
However, a persistent question that Crosby and his team consistently face is: for how much longer can this continue?
An Unresolved Question
The undisputed future Hall of Famer and triple Stanley Cup champion is currently under contract until the end of next season. He firmly asserts his commitment to remaining with the only NHL franchise he has ever known, even as the Penguins navigate a rebuilding phase for which General Manager Kyle Dubas has declined to provide a definitive timeline.
Pittsburgh has not qualified for the postseason since 2022 and has failed to win a single playoff series since 2018. External expectations for the team remain modest following a relatively quiet summer, marked primarily by the hiring of Dan Muse to replace long-serving head coach Mike Sullivan, who has since taken on the same role with the New York Rangers.
