I CAN’T BELIEVE HE IS GOING: Pittsburgh penguins franchise center Sidney Crosby had Submitted Resignation letter to….see more

I CAN’T BELIEVE HE IS GOING: Pittsburgh Penguins Franchise Center Sidney Crosby Submits Resignation Letter to Front Office

 In what can only be described as a seismic moment in NHL history, Pittsburgh Penguins captain and franchise cornerstone Sidney Crosby has reportedly submitted a formal resignation letter to the team’s front office earlier this week, stunning the hockey world and leaving fans in disbelief.

Multiple sources close to the organization confirmed late Wednesday night that Crosby, 38, informed General Manager Kyle Dubas and team ownership of his decision to step away from the game — or at least from the Penguins — effective immediately. While details remain scarce, insiders suggest the resignation was “not due to injury” and was “entirely Crosby’s personal choice.”

“This is something Sidney has been contemplating for a while,” a team executive said under the condition of anonymity. “He’s always carried himself with the utmost professionalism, and this decision, like everything he’s done, comes from a deeply thoughtful place.”

A Legacy Like No Other

Drafted first overall in 2005, Crosby has been the face of the Penguins — and arguably the entire NHL — for nearly two decades. A three-time Stanley Cup champion (2009, 2016, 2017), two-time Hart Trophy winner, and two-time Olympic gold medalist, Crosby’s influence extends far beyond the ice.

His 1,600+ career points, countless clutch performances, and fierce leadership have not only redefined the Penguins franchise but also helped revitalize hockey in Pittsburgh.

“Sid is more than a player. He’s an institution,” said longtime teammate Kris Letang. “If this is really it, it’s hard to imagine this locker room — or this city — without him.”

Why Now?

The timing of Crosby’s resignation has ignited widespread speculation. Some believe it’s tied to frustrations with the team’s direction, as the Penguins have missed the playoffs in back-to-back seasons for the first time in his career. Others suggest it could be a prelude to retirement, or even a move to another role within hockey — possibly in management or player development.

There is also a growing theory that Crosby may not be done playing hockey, just done in Pittsburgh. Rumors of a “quiet tension” between Crosby and the front office have been circulating since the team’s disappointing end to the 2024–25 season.

Fan Reaction: Shock, Grief, Gratitude

The response from fans has been a mix of heartbreak and deep gratitude. Social media exploded Thursday morning with tributes, theories, and emotional goodbyes. “#ThankYouSid” and “#CrosbyForever” began trending within hours of the news breaking.

“Sidney Crosby is the reason I became a hockey fan,” wrote one user. “He brought us championships, dignity, and pride. If this is goodbye, I’ll never stop cheering for #87.”

What’s Next?

The Penguins have not yet released an official statement, and Crosby himself has not addressed the public. A press conference is expected in the coming days, where more details may emerge about the future of one of hockey’s greatest icons.

Until then, fans and analysts alike will be left to wonder: Is this the end of Sidney Crosby’s storied career — or just the end of his time in Pittsburgh?