While many have downplayed the idea of a trade involving Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby, the truth is that the franchise could do well kick-starting a full rebuild by moving its star players.

Canada captain Sidney Crosby, right, hoists the trophy after defeating the United States following an overtime period of the 4 Nations Face-Off championship hockey game, Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, in Boston.

MacKinnon and Sidney Crosby have developed a tight bond, which made winning the 4 Nations Face-Off title together with Canada even more special. They just bring out the best in each other, whether it's as teammates internationally or as rivals in the NHL.

Nathan MacKinnon’s childhood idol and role model has turned into a training partner and an offseason neighbor back home in the Halifax area of their native Nova Scotia. One of his closest friends, too.

Not enough wins. Not much hope for this season. But still a lot to discuss. Refreshing Penguins notes are the lifeblood of Pittsburgh hockey! First shot, first goal! • Sidney Crosby had a goal and two assists in Sunday’s 6-5 overtime loss against visiting Toronto.

Nathan MacKinnon’s childhood idol and role model has turned into a training partner and an offseason neighbor back home in the Halifax area of their native Nova Scotia. One of his closest friends, too.

Nathan MacKinnon’s childhood idol and role model has turned into a training partner and an offseason neighbor back home in the Halifax area of their native Nova Scotia. One of his closest friends, too.

Nathan MacKinnon’s childhood idol and role model has turned into a training partner and an offseason neighbor back home in the Halifax area of their native Nova Scotia. One of his closest friends, too.

Nathan MacKinnon and Sidney Crosby teamed up to help Canada win the 4 Nations Face-Off last month, and now the good friends from Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, will be back battling each other when the Colorado Avalanche meet the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday night in Denver.

Penguins Captain Sidney Crosby teaming up with his fellow Halifax native and friend, Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon, is unlikely besides for Canada.

Sidney Crosby led Team Canada to win the 4 Nations Face Off final against Team USA. Fans are intrigued by Crosby's seemingly confused reaction, with various speculations about his feelings. Crosby later explained handing the trophy to Bradchand due to personal significance.

Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon played a key role in helping Team Canada win gold at the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament by defeating the United States 3-2. On Tuesday, the Colorado Avalanche defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-1 at Ball Arena. Artturi Lehkonen opened the scoring for the Avs after giving them a 1-0 lead 6:36 into the second period.