As we gear up for the 2025-26 NHL season, all eyes are on Sidney Crosby. The legendary Pittsburgh Penguins captain is generating buzz in trade discussions after his comments at the NHL Player Media Tour, leaving fans and analysts alike speculating about his future.

Despite possessing a full no-movement clause on his two-year contract, Crosby’s sentiment about the Penguins' recent struggles raises questions: Could he really be open to playing elsewhere?

Assessing the Trade Landscape: Strong Possibilities or Total Pipe Dreams?

This week, The Athletic surveyed NHL experts to categorize potential trade scenarios for Crosby, using four classifications: "strong possibility," "maybe," "slight chance," and "no way." Here's what they found for each team.

Anaheim Ducks: No Way!

Currently, the Ducks are far from being prime contenders, and with their star player Mason McTavish still unsigned, a trade feels improbable.

Boston Bruins: No Way!

With the Bruins not in championship mode, the likelihood of Crosby wanting to join them is virtually zero.

Buffalo Sabres: No Way!

After years of heartbreak, it’s hard to envision Crosby choosing a team still trapped in the NHL's longest playoff drought.

Calgary Flames: Slight Chance!

Though the Flames have the assets, their current roster may not be enough to attract Crosby.

Carolina Hurricanes: Maybe!

Crosby could find a welcoming home with the Hurricanes, who have a competitive edge and familiar faces like Jordan Staal.

Chicago Blackhawks: No Way!

As the Blackhawks are still in rebuilding mode, Crosby’s interest in joining them seems unlikely.

Colorado Avalanche: Maybe!

With Team Canada teammates like Nathan MacKinnon, the Avalanche could be a tantalizing option for Crosby.

Columbus Blue Jackets: Slight Chance!

While they have the talent to entice Crosby, he may hesitate to join a franchise without playoff success.

Dallas Stars: Slight Chance!

The allure of winning a Stanley Cup might make Dallas an intriguing option, but cap constraints complicate things.

Detroit Red Wings: Slight Chance!

Though the Red Wings could make a compelling offer, their playoff contention still feels a bit far off for Crosby.

Edmonton Oilers: Slight Chance!

With two of the league's best players, the Oilers could be enticing, but financial limitations may hinder any deal.

Florida Panthers: Strong Possibility!

Florida's appeal might be high on Crosby's wishlist; teaming up with Brad Marchand could do the trick!

Los Angeles Kings: No Way!

The Kings seem set on younger talent, making a Crosby move unlikely.

Minnesota Wild: Slight Chance!

With many of Crosby's former teammates now in Minnesota, there’s potential for a scenario that brings him back.

Montreal Canadiens: Strong Possibility!

The Habs are almost overflowing with potential trades, making them a contender that could fulfill Crosby's yearning to win.

Nashville Predators: Slight Chance!

While they have a need for veteran leadership, this move might feel too risky for both sides.

New Jersey Devils: Slight Chance!

Although they’re in contention, a Crosby pairing is yet to gain traction.

New York Islanders: No Way!

As they retool, it's hard to see Crosby leaving one rebuilding team for another.

New York Rangers: Slight Chance!

If the Rangers can show their potential as true contenders, this might become a more viable situation.

Ottawa Senators: No Way!

The Senators' position and assets make this a highly impractical option.

Philadelphia Flyers: No Way!

Despite connections with coach Rick Tocchet, this trade feels as realistic as a Cubs' trade!

Pittsburgh Penguins: Slight Chance!

Though extremely unlikely, Crosby's future remains uncertain in light of recent discussions.

San Jose Sharks: No Way!

The Sharks are still in a rebuilding phase, making Crosby’s decision to join them very unlikely.

Seattle Kraken: No Way!

They are still far from being serious contenders, making them an unappealing option for Crosby.

St. Louis Blues: No Way!

With their current state, it’s hard to see Crosby wanting to join a non-competitive team.

Tampa Bay Lightning: Slight Chance!

The Lightning could be a contender for Crosby if they find a way to fit him under their cap.

Toronto Maple Leafs: Slight Chance!

While they would love to add him, the assets to make it happen may just not be there.

Utah Mammoth: No Way!

Though an exciting team, the Mammoth won't likely be on Crosby's radar.

Vancouver Canucks: Maybe!

While not the most obvious choice, history between management could make this trade possible.

Vegas Golden Knights: Slight Chance!

Creativity could pave the way, but it's a long shot.

Washington Capitals: No Way!

The scenario of Crosby and Ovechkin teaming up is appealing, but simply not realistic.

Winnipeg Jets: Slight Chance!

Crosby's historic ties with Team Canada could spark interest, but Winnipeg may not make his final destination.

The hunt for Crosby's future is heating up! Will he opt for a familiar team, or venture into new territories? Stay tuned as the trade frenzy unfolds!