Insider Predicts Maple Leafs Swap $77 Million Forward for Sidney Crosby
With the Toronto Maple Leafs beginning a new era under head coach Craig Berube and the Pittsburgh Penguins nearing the end of Sidney Crosby’s tenure, a potential trade could benefit both teams.
TSN’s OverDrive host Bryan Hayes shared his idea on July 3, suggesting that the Maple Leafs and Penguins could make significant moves in the summer of 2025, contingent on Crosby becoming a free agent. Hayes believes Crosby joining the Maple Leafs would be monumental, given his status as one of the greatest Canadian captains, alongside Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Mario Lemieux.
Crosby, under contract with the Penguins for one more season, signed a 12-year, $104.4 million deal in 2013 that expires after the 2024-25 season, making him an unrestricted free agent. John Tavares, another key player in this scenario, is also in the final year of a seven-year, $77 million contract with the Maple Leafs.
Hayes envisions Crosby replacing Tavares once his contract ends, providing the Maple Leafs with a legendary center to fill the gap.
Is Sidney Crosby Leaving Pittsburgh?
Although nothing is confirmed, recent whispers suggest Crosby might follow a path similar to Steven Stamkos, who left the Tampa Bay Lightning for the Nashville Predators in a surprising move.
Dan Kingerski of Pittsburgh Hockey Now speculates that the Penguins may be heading toward a full-scale rebuild, with Crosby potentially leaving. Despite ongoing discussions between Crosby and Penguins GM Kyle Dubas, no optimistic statements have been made.
Crosby, who will be 37 in the final year of his contract, scored 94 points (42 goals, 52 assists) in the 2024 season but failed to lead the Penguins to the playoffs.
Will John Tavares Lose the Maple Leafs’ Captaincy?
There are rumors that the Maple Leafs may strip John Tavares of his captaincy and give it to Auston Matthews. NHL insider Nick Kypreos mentioned this possibility on Sportsnet’s Real Kyper & Bourne show, noting that discussions are ongoing.
Tavares, who signed a significant deal in 2018 and was named captain in 2019, had a decent 2024 season with 29 goals and 36 assists but struggled in the playoffs.
The Athletic’s James Mirtle echoed Kypreos’ sentiments, suggesting that Matthews, as the face of the franchise, will eventually become captain, whether this fall or after Tavares’ contract ends.
