Penguins Veteran Stars Crosby, Malkin Commit Amid Ongoing Team Rebuild

Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, two of the Pittsburgh Penguins' most iconic players, remain committed to the team despite its current rebuilding phase and recent struggles to reach the postseason. Malkin, nearing the end of his career and contract, expressed a desire to retire with the Penguins but acknowledged the possibility of playing elsewhere if the team trades him. Crosby, entering his 21st season, maintains enthusiasm and dedication to the Penguins, despite the team's low championship odds and a rebuild without a clear timeline. Both players have a rich history of success with Pittsburgh, including multiple Stanley Cup wins, and Crosby aims to win another Stanley Cup or two before retiring. General manager Kyle Dubas has not set a specific timetable for the rebuild, and the team has seen coaching changes with Dan Muse replacing Mike Sullivan. The Penguins have not won a playoff series since 2018 and have missed the postseason since 2022, presenting a challenging environment for these veteran leaders.