In what could be a seismic shift in the NHL landscape, there’s a buzzing NHL trade rumor that the Pittsburgh Penguins are considering sending their marquee forward Sidney Crosby to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The proposed trade package is nothing short of blockbuster, with the Leafs sending Max Domi, Ryan Reaves, top prospect Fraser Minton, and their 2024 1st-round pick to Pittsburgh. Additionally, the Penguins are rumored to retain 50% of Crosby’s salary for the last two years of his contract.
At 36, Crosby remains a force to be reckoned with in the NHL. He’s maintaining a point-per-game pace, boasts impressive faceoff percentages and his defensive play is as solid as ever.
But what truly sets Crosby apart is his unparalleled leadership, both on and off the ice. This trade, if it materializes, would not only be a game-changer for the Leafs but also for the Penguins, who seem to be eyeing a strategic retooling.
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The logic behind this rumor is grounded in the current NHL standings and the whispers around Pittsburgh’s front office. General Manager Kyle Dubas might see this as an opportune moment to leverage Crosby’s high value for a robust return, laying a foundation for the team’s future.
For the Leafs, acquiring Crosby is a no-brainer. The impact of his arrival in Toronto would be immediate and profound, especially with the Pittsburgh Penguins agreeing to retain a significant portion of his salary. This move would not disrupt the Leafs’ salary cap, making it a financially savvy decision as well.
So why does this trade rumor hold water? The Penguins, if the rumors are accurate, are looking to revitalize their roster, and in Crosby, they have a valuable asset that can fetch them a handsome return. The Leafs, on the other hand, are in a win-now mode, and adding a player of Crosby’s caliber could be the missing piece in their Stanley Cup puzzle.
This deal, should it come to fruition, would be one of the most significant trades in recent NHL history. It’s a testament to Crosby’s enduring value and the ever-evolving dynamics of the league. Whether this rumor turns into reality remains to be seen, but it’s certainly a possibility that has the hockey world abuzz.
Interesting you failed to mention Crosby has a full NMC and has given less than zero indication he would waive it to move on from the only team he knows, and in doing so, would break up the longest and certainly one of the greatest trios in NHL history
This is pure Toronto fantasy.
Love Crosby, but the Leafs don’t need offense, they need a defenseman.
No point giving up a blue chip prospect and a 1st for a player that will retire in a few years.