Hockey, like any sport, is synonymous with numbers. Goals, assists, points, power-play percentage, advanced statistics, salary-cap figures, player ages. They’re all numbers.
With that in mind, let’s focus on some intriguing numbers that have been catching everyone’s attention lately:
43 — It has been 43 days since Sidney Crosby could have signed a new contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins, a deal that both the team and Crosby himself have expressed interest in.
36 — Approximately 36 days remain until training camp kicks off in Cranberry. If Crosby hasn’t signed by then, prepare for a barrage of contract questions. And imagine the scrutiny he would face playing in Toronto and Montreal without a deal.
321 — Looking even further ahead, there are 321 days until July 1, 2025, when Crosby is set to become an unrestricted free agent.
Personally, I firmly believe Crosby will ink a new contract before training camp. But the longer this process drags on, the more perplexing it becomes.
From a negotiation standpoint, it’s hard to imagine Penguins GM Kyle Dubas playing hardball with Crosby. Crosby is not just another player; he’s a franchise icon and one of the greatest in hockey history.
On Crosby’s end, his loyalty to Pittsburgh is unwavering. He’s on record saying he only wants to play for the Penguins. With friends like Letang and Malkin still on the team, his bond to the franchise runs deep.
Despite the team’s recent struggles, Crosby’s commitment to Pittsburgh remains strong. The Penguins may not be the dominant force they once were, but Crosby’s presence continues to draw fans.
So, why the delay in securing his contract extension? Both sides need to prioritize the negotiations and ensure Crosby’s future in Pittsburgh is secured.
As the countdown to training camp continues, the anticipation grows. Will Crosby sign before the season begins, or will the Penguins face unwanted distractions?
One thing is for sure: Crosby’s impact on and off the ice is invaluable. Keeping him in Pittsburgh should be a top priority for the team.
Let’s hope for a resolution soon, so the focus can shift back to the exciting hockey ahead.
(Photo: Steph Chambers / Getty Images)
