Fans Are Upset With Patrice Bergeron Following Recent Statement

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Austin Sabourin
March 15, 2024 (4:44 PM)

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The Pittsburgh Penguins faced a challenging Trade Deadline Day, making significant moves that signaled a shift towards rebuilding.

Among the notable departures was star winger Jake Guentzel, as the organization set its sights on a new direction.

General Manager Kyle Dubas' decision to focus on youth development left team captain Sidney Crosby understandably frustrated. Rumors swirled regarding Crosby's future, with speculation mounting about the possibility of him seeking a trade or exploring other opportunities with Stanley Cup contenders.

In a recent interview with TVA Sports, former Boston Bruins captain Patrice Bergeron weighed in on Crosby's situation, offering valuable insight.

Having spent his entire career with the Bruins, Bergeron empathized with Crosby's dilemma, emphasizing the importance of following one's heart and remaining loyal to one's team. Bergeron's sentiments echoed the sentiments of many fans who hoped Crosby would remain with the Penguins, the team he had helped revitalize since joining at a young age.

"I don't know what he's going to do, but as long as he follows his heart. Of course it would be weird to see him in a uniform different than that of the Penguins, because he started there at 18 and he saved the franchise," Bergeron explained on the JiC show. "We'll see what happens next, but for my part, I'm a little more old fashioned and with a loyal side, therefore I hope he can stay," he continued.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Crosby's future, there are indications that his commitment to the Penguins runs deep. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman highlighted Crosby's loyalty to the organization and his desire to see it succeed. While acknowledging Crosby's frustration, Friedman emphasized the importance of giving the front office an opportunity to address the team's challenges and turn things around.

"Crosby's earned the right to do what he wants, but, after Kris Letang and Evgeni Malkin signed for term, I don't see him walking away without giving the front office a chance to turn things around. I've said this on the pod, but my guess is they offer him two or three years at $10.5M-ish and we go from there," Friedman noted.

Looking ahead, Crosby faces a pivotal decision as he becomes eligible to negotiate a contract extension with Pittsburgh. Speculation is likely to persist until a resolution is reached, particularly if the Penguins continue to struggle to secure a postseason berth. However, amidst the uncertainty, there remains a sense of optimism that Crosby's bond with the Penguins will endure, paving the way for future successes on the ice.

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