Sidney Crosby’s name has always commanded attention, but this week, a new wave of speculation has swept through the hockey world—one that could reshape the legacy of two storied franchises.

The Pittsburgh Penguins’ legendary captain, known for his loyalty and iconic status, has suddenly found himself at the center of rumors that refuse to fade. And this time, the whispers are louder than ever.

A single, carefully chosen comment from one of the NHL’s most trusted insiders has ignited a frenzy among fans and analysts alike.

The possibility of Crosby donning the Montreal Canadiens’ colors—something once considered almost unthinkable—now lingers in the air, tempting imaginations and stirring debate across Quebec and beyond.

The idea alone has sparked conversations in locker rooms, on social media, and in homes where hockey is more than just a game.

But what’s really behind this latest surge in speculation? Why is the Canadiens’ name suddenly emerging as a credible destination for one of the sport’s most celebrated players?

And what could such a seismic move mean for both teams, their fans, and the future of the NHL itself? The answers aren’t as simple as they seem. Read on to uncover the full story behind the rumor that just won’t die.

Mar 11, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) smiles on the ice against the Vegas Golden Knights during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Sidney Crosby’s future continues to generate plenty of headlines, and this time the rumor took a new turn after Elliotte Friedman stirred intrigue by suggesting that if Crosby were ever to accept the idea of a trade, the Montreal Canadiens would be on a very short list of teams he would consider.

Of course, nothing is confirmed, but just the thought of number 87 wearing the bleu-blanc-rouge is enough to capture the attention of hockey fans across Quebec.

For months, there’s been plenty of chatter, but when the news comes directly from the NHL’s most reputable insider, it carries serious weight.

Sidney Crosby and the Montreal Canadiens, a Rumor That Refuses to Die

As Friedman noted:

“I don’t think it’s impossible.”

Those words are significant because Crosby holds a no-trade clause and has always controlled his own destiny.

The fact that Montreal is even mentioned in this discussion puts the Canadiens in a scenario that seemed unthinkable just a few years ago.

Friedman on Sidney Crosby: “I know the Montreal speculation has exploded; I don’t think it’s impossible; if he agreed to be traded, I think Montreal would be on a very short list of teams he’d be willing to consider”

In an analysis published by The Athletic, several options were explored for all 32 NHL teams, but the Canadiens repeatedly surfaced as a credible destination.

Not only does Crosby have cultural and family ties to Quebec, but he would also serve as an ideal mentor for young players like Ivan Demidov and Lane Hutson.

For the Penguins, such a trade would undoubtedly mark the end of a historic era. However, at 38 years old, Crosby might be tempted to take on one final challenge in a legendary hockey city.

Personally, I believe that while this scenario remains unlikely, the mere fact that his name is being linked to the Canadiens shows just how much aura the organization still holds within the NHL.