Hypothetical scenario made by analysts is bringing Sidney Crosby in Montreal
The idea of Sidney Crosby joining the Montreal Canadiens is thrilling and polarizing at the same time.
Crosby is nothing less than a generational talent and lifelong fan of the Canadiens and he would undoubtedly bring a short-term boost to the team.
However, the proposed trade is sending the 16th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft to Pittsburgh in exchange for Sidney Crosby and this is raising questions about value and timing.
For Montreal, acquiring Crosby would provide an immediate upgrade and his leadership and skill could help mentor young stars like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Juraj Slafkovsky that's for sure.
- Mathias Brunet
However, Crosby is now 37 and he is likely nearing the end of his career in the NHL.
Trading a mid-first-round pick might not align with the Canadiens' rebuilding timeline unless management believes they're ready to compete for the playoffs within the next two years.
From Pittsburgh's perspective, this trade seems implausible just because Crosby is the face of their franchise, and his legacy is deeply tied to the Penguins.
Trading him for a single mid-first-round pick feels like an underwhelming return for Pittsburgh and a move like this one could put fans in a bad mood and tarnish the relationship between Crosby and the organization.
Ultimately, while this hypothetical deal is entertaining, it feels unrealistic for both team since Crosby's loyalty to Pittsburgh and the Penguins' reluctance to trade him make it almost impossible to do.
If a trade ever happens, then the return would almost certainly exceed a single draft pick and for now, Crosby's legendary status ensures he remains one of the most untouchable players in the NHL, making this scenario more of a «what if» than a possibility.
