NHL Rumors: Penguins Delaying Extension Talks For Top Four Defenseman

The Pittsburgh Penguins have more than just their captain to take care of this offseason.

The rumors of re-signing Sidney Crosby continue to swirl as an extension is reportedly being worked on between Pittsburgh and their captain. That’s great news for Penguins fans, and there are more players on the team waiting on a potential extension.

One of those names is defenseman Marcus Pettersson, who is a pending unrestricted free agent who will be on the market after the 2024-25 NHL season.

Pittsburgh Hockey Now’s Dan Kingerski is reporting that the Penguins are waiting to sign Crosby before beginning extension talks with Pettersson.

“According to sources, the Penguins are waiting to sign Crosby before getting to Marcus Pettersson, who is also a pending UFA,” Kingerski wrote. “With Matt Grzelcyk also on a one-year deal, Ryan Graves is the only established NHL defenseman with a left-handed stick currently scheduled to be with the Penguins past July 1, 2025.”

Kingerski adds that the Penguins likely do not have a more valuable trade chip than Pettersson on the roster.

Pettersson finished the 2023-24 season with four goals, 26 assists, and 30 points while being a plus-28 on the campaign. He also averaged 22:40 time on ice, which was a career-high.

Considering what Pettersson brings to the table, an extension feels like a necessity between the two sides as soon as Crosby re-signs. It remains to be seen if that will be the case this offseason.

More NHL: NHL Rumors: Penguins, Sidney Crosby Agreement ‘Imminent’