Team Canada may see a big name join them from the Pittsburgh Penguins.

PITTSBURGH – With the Pittsburgh Penguins season ending earlier than hoped, a handful of players may have an opportunity to play more hockey. The 2024 IIHF World Championship is on the horizon, and international teams are starting to build their rosters.

Team Canada has reached out to Penguins captain Sidney Crosby, but he has yet to make a decision. In his final media availability of the year, Crosby said he would take some time to consider his options.

“It’s something I’m going to think about the next couple of days,” Crosby said. “Give them an answer after that.”

Crosby may be easily persuaded by Team Canada’s most recent front-office hire. Not long after he finished speaking with the media for the final time, it was announced that Team Canada named Penguins president Kyle Dubas as their associate general manager.

This is the first time Dubas will represent his country on the international stage, and he could be behind a big push to get Crosby on the roster.

“Kyle brings a wealth of professional experience, and we know he will be an invaluable member of our staff that will greatly benefit our team,” Team Canada GM Rick Nash said. “As we continue preparations and begin selecting our coaching staff, support staff, and roster, I know Kyle and our selection committee will play an integral role in ensuring we assemble a team that gives us the best chance to defend gold in Czechia.”

Coaches and players from around the league are expected to be named to their teams over the next few weeks. Team Canada is expected to be a front-runner, as always, with a few big names already committed.

According to Darren Dreger, Brandon Tanev, Owen Power, Dawson Mercer, and Jared McCann have all committed to Team Canada. Young stars like Connor Bedard and the expected No. 1 overall pick at the 2024 NHL Draft, Macklin Celebrini, are also likely to accept their offers.

Team Canada could once again be a stacked roster. With Dubas on board, Crosby may have an easier decision about competing for another IIHF gold medal.

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