A recent report details why a potential trade between the Colorado Avalanche and Pittsburgh Penguins, involving Martin Necas for star forward Sidney Crosby, could be a mutually beneficial move for both teams as they look to reshape their rosters.
Could the Avalanche swap Martin Necas for Sidney Crosby?
Nestor Quixtan from Mile High Sticking writes that much of the talk about Crosby's future focuses on his likely exit from Pittsburgh, driven by the Penguins' upcoming rebuild as their once-dominant Stanley Cup-winning core slowly fades.
"While the Penguins may want to give it one more go, the rebuild has been precipitated by Evgeni Malkin's retirement at the end of this upcoming season. With Malkin riding off into the sunset, it seems like it's only a matter of time before Crosby follows suit." -Quixtan
This prospect has sparked speculation that the Penguins might trade Crosby as they begin their rebuild, with such a move expected to bring in significant assets to help accelerate the process.
"But then again, the biggest question lies in figuring out where Crosby could be traded to. Plenty of rumors have suggested multiple trade destinations. But one destination that has been consistently mentioned is Colorado." -Quixtan
However, an intriguing article published in the Denver Gazette on July 19 suggested the possibility of Crosby moving to the Mile High City in a trade involving Necas and additional assets.
"When you think about it, it wouldn't be the craziest thing in the world. The Avalanche are likely going to lose Necas after this season. If the club isn't confident in re-signing him, a trade could be on the horizon. Meanwhile, the Penguins are rebuilding. Assuming Sid is willing to move on from the impending mess in Pittsburgh, he could waive his no-trade clause to come to Denver." -Quixtan
The Penguins might be willing to offer Necas the contract he desires, while the Avalanche could provide Crosby with one final chance to chase another Stanley Cup. Although Crosby doesn't necessarily need another ring, the idea of ending his career on a high note is certainly appealing.