Sidney Crosby’s Final Run Hangs in Balance as Penguins Struggle in Offseason

Sidney Crosby is in the final year of his current contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the team’s quiet offseason has raised doubts about Kyle Dubas’s ability to build a legitimate Stanley Cup contender around him.

What happened this offseason?

The Penguins made three notable moves: they acquired forward Nicholas Robertson from the Toronto Maple Leafs on a two-year deal worth $3.25 million AAV, signed Andrei Kuzmenko to a one-year, $5 million AAV contract, and lost 30-goal scorer Anthony Mantha to the New Jersey Devils on a $4.75 million cap hit. Robertson scored 16 goals last season, while Kuzmenko managed just 13 in 52 games after a knee injury sidelined him until mid-April. Kuzmenko’s projected full-season output is around 21 goals, meaning the duo would combine for roughly 37 goals to replace Mantha’s 33.

Why it matters for Sidney Crosby

Crosby’s future in Pittsburgh is now tied to whether the Penguins can remain competitive in the final year of his deal. With Evgeni Malkin also set to leave after next season, the organization faces a potential rebuild. Crosby’s decision to stay or pursue elsewhere could hinge on the team’s performance this year. Dubas’s ability to address roster gaps-including the void left by Mantha-will directly impact Crosby’s final push for a championship.

The Penguins’ free-agent options

Three players remain on the market who could help: Patrik Laine, Kevin Hayes, and Evander Kane. Laine played only five games last season due to a core injury requiring surgery in October 2025, and his health remains a major concern. Hayes appeared in just 28 games last season after two upper-body injuries, recording 31 points over his last two seasons combined. Kane, while risky due to locker-room reputation, offers the most upside with potential 20-25 goal production if healthy.

What comes next?

The Penguins’ next move could shape Crosby’s legacy. A wildcard option involves pursuing Jason Robertson from Dallas, though it would require a significant trade package. If Dubas lands the right piece, Crosby may have one last shot at a Cup. If not, the Penguins’ future-and Crosby’s final chapter-could look very different by next summer.