In one of the most stunning moves in modern NHL history, Sidney Crosby has agreed to sign with the Edmonton Oilers on a 5-year, $50 million contract, league sources confirmed Thursday.
The deal, finalized earlier this morning, ends Crosby’s legendary 20-year run with the Pittsburgh Penguins and sets the stage for an unprecedented partnership between Crosby and fellow Canadian superstar Connor McDavid.
“This is a historic day for hockey fans in Canada,” said Edmonton GM Ken Holland. “We’ve added a generational leader who knows what it takes to win. Pairing Sid with Connor gives us a window to chase multiple Cups.”
🔹 A Canadian Homecoming
Crosby, 37, had long been rumored to consider a move to Western Canada if the opportunity presented itself. With Pittsburgh entering a rebuild and Crosby’s no-movement clause still intact, insiders say he initiated the conversation with Penguins management earlier this spring.
The five-year deal — which averages $10 million per season — will carry Crosby through age 42, and signals that he’s not interested in winding down, but rather winning more now.
“I still believe I can play at the highest level,” Crosby said in a short statement released through his agent. “Joining a team like Edmonton, with the talent they have, is an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”
🔹 Legacy and New Chapters
Crosby leaves Pittsburgh as one of the greatest players in NHL history:
3 Stanley Cups (2009, 2016, 2017)
2 Hart Trophies
2 Conn Smythe Trophies
1,596 points over 1,264 games
10x NHL All-Star
Now, he joins a team loaded with firepower in McDavid, Leon Draisaitl (pending extension), and Zach Hyman — in what could become the league’s most potent offensive core.
“We’re beyond excited,” said McDavid. “He’s a player I’ve looked up to my whole life. To get the chance to chase a Cup together is something special.”
🔹 Fallout in Pittsburgh
The Penguins are expected to enter a full rebuild following Crosby’s departure. Though the franchise has been preparing for this eventuality — stockpiling prospects and picks — fans across Pittsburgh are still in shock.
“It’s hard to see him go,” Penguins coach Mike Sullivan said. “Sid has been the heartbeat of this team for two decades. But he’s earned the right to decide how his story ends.”
Crosby has reportedly already spoken with several Oilers players, and is expected to arrive in Edmonton later this week to begin off-season training.
🔸 Contract Breakdown:
Term: 5 years
Total Value: $50 million
AAV: $10 million
No-move clause: Full
Performance bonuses: None reported
🔹 What Comes Next
With the deal official, all eyes will be on the Oilers heading into the 2025–26 season. Oddsmakers in Vegas have already moved Edmonton to the top of the Stanley Cup favorites list.
“McDavid. Crosby. Draisaitl. If this team stays healthy, it could be one of the greatest runs we’ve ever seen,” said ESPN analyst Emily Kaplan.
One era ends, another begins — and with it, perhaps the final chapters in Sidney Crosby’s incredible hockey legacy.
