The Pittsburgh Penguins expressed disappointment with their performance during the recently concluded season despite their star players maintaining elite-level production. Their hopes of making it to the playoffs were dashed when they failed to beat the Chicago Blackhawks and Columbus Blue Jackets in their final two games. As a result, the Penguins' upper management staff was dismissed the day after their season ended, signaling a potential shakeup in the organization.
According to Paul Bissonnette, a former NHL enforcer turned analyst, there is a possibility that Sidney Crosby, the Penguins' long-time captain, may be traded. Bissonnette even speculates that Crosby could be moved to a team where one of his friends currently plays.
It remains to be seen whether or not the Penguins will indeed trade their franchise player, but the management changes suggest that the team is not content with their recent results and is looking to make significant changes to improve their chances of success in the future.
With a contract that has two years left and an $8,700,000 cap hit, acquiring Sidney Crosby will not be an easy fit for the Avalanche. However, if the Avalanche management believes that Crosby can continue to help their team compete for the Stanley Cup in the next two seasons, they may be enticed to pursue the trade despite the challenges.