Sidney Crosby explains why he signed team-friendly $17.4M Penguins extension

By Abhishek Dilta

Modified Sep 17, 2024 03:26 GMT

On Monday, Sidney Crosby put to rest any speculation regarding his future with the Pittsburgh Penguins by signing a two-year extension worth $17.4 million.

The deal, which carries an AAV of $8.7 million, will take effect starting in the 2025–26 season. The extension ensures that the Penguins captain will continue to lead the team for at least two more years, solidifying his commitment to the franchise and its fans.

Sidney Crosby shared his thoughts on why he chose to sign a team-friendly extension with the Penguins. He emphasized that winning remains his top priority and that he understands the importance of the team's dynamics and success.

"I think, you know, winning is most important thing to me, and I think understanding the dynamic and how it works, and trying to give, you know, the team best possible chance to be successful," Crosby said.

"And ultimately, you got to go out there and do your best and do your job."

Crosby explained that his focus is on contributing to the team's performance rather than fixating on contract numbers:

"So, you know, I think I'm more focused on that than, you know, than the number, I guess, but, yeah, that's, that's just something that's my approach, and that's, I've always kind of seen it."

Sidney Crosby is entering the final season of a 12-year, $104.4 contract signed with the Pens in 2012. His approach reflects his longstanding commitment to the Pens and dedication to helping the franchise succeed under his leadership.

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"Glad it's done": Sidney Crosby after signing extension with Penguins

Crosby expressed relief and happiness after completing his contract extension with the Penguins. He said that he's pleased to know that he will remain with the team for a few more years.

Reflecting on his previous contract, Crosby also admitted that he hadn't considered the possibility of continuing his career beyond that deal (via NHL.com):

“(I'm) just glad that it’s done, and I’m really happy to know that I’ll be here for a few more years,” Crosby said. “My last contract, I don’t think I thought about the possibility of still playing beyond that, so I’m just really happy that it’s worked out this way.”

Sidney Crosby was drafted No. 1 overall by the Penguins in the 2005 NHL draft and has remained with them since then. "Sid the Kid" will enter his 20th campaign with the Penguins in the 2024-25 season.

Crosby, who has won three Stanley Cups in his illustrious career, has accumulated 1,596 points through 592 goals and 1,004 points in 1,272 career games.