Sidney Crosby is forcing Kyle Dubas into one crucial decision

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Daniel Lucente
January 25, 2026 (10:38)

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Photo credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

Sidney Crosby is dragging the Pittsburgh Penguins into the race, and Kyle Dubas has to add at the trade deadline if this push is real.

The standings say it, not the vibes. Pittsburgh sits 25-14-11 with 61 points and has a legit grip on a playoff spot.

Crosby keeps setting the tempo. He is at 27-30-57, and it feels like every big shift starts on his stick.

That's the part that matters for Dubas. You do not "retool" quietly when your captain is still tilting games.

The next checkpoint is Friday, March 6. That deadline is close enough that the market is already forming.

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This roster needs a real boost, not a token depth move. Think a winger who can finish in the top-six, or a center who can win tough minutes.

The Penguins also need insulation on the blue line. When the pace ramps up, one more trustworthy defender changes everything.

I can feel the impatience in this fanbase, because the effort is there and the margins are still scary.

Dubas should treat this as a two-step buy. Add one impact piece, then steal a second with retention and a mid-round pick.

It also protects the room. Guys like Rickard Rakell can stay in their best slots instead of stretching to cover holes.

If the price is a prospect, fine. The return is a real spring run, and Crosby has earned that bet.

Just be smart with the cap hit. The target has to fit beyond this season, or come with salary held back.

The Penguins have enough to get in. Dubas needs to give them enough to stay in.

Previously on HockeyUnplugged

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JANVIER 25\|150 ANSWERS Sidney Crosby is forcing Kyle Dubas into one crucial decision Should Kyle Dubas add at the trade deadline to help Sidney Crosby?
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