Sidney Crosby and the Penguins open a new season with a similar pursuit

Sidney Crosby is set to enter his 22nd NHL season as the Pittsburgh Penguins open their 2026-27 campaign on the road against the Philadelphia Flyers. Coming off a 41-25-16 record with 98 points last season, the Penguins are focused on building on that playoff appearance. Crosby stated that the team's objective is to progress deeper into the postseason than they did the previous year.

Pittsburgh president of hockey operations Kyle Dubas stressed the goal of continuous improvement toward Stanley Cup contention rather than regression. Head coach Dan Muse praised the ongoing dedication and leadership demonstrated by Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang, noting that their work ethic remains an essential and contagious example for the team's younger players.