Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) faces off against Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (29) in the third period overtime of an NHL hockey game Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski) Friday Faceoff: Should the Colorado Avalanche trade for NHL superstar Sidney Crosby?

While many have downplayed the idea of a trade involving Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby, the truth is that the franchise could do well kick-starting a full rebuild by moving its star players.

Nathan MacKinnon outdueled his good buddy Sidney Crosby as the Colorado Avalanche beat the struggling Penguins, 4-1, Tuesday at Ball Arena.

Nathan MacKinnon and Sidney Crosby teamed up to help Canada win the 4 Nations Face-Off last month, and now the good friends from Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, will be back battling each other when the Colorado Avalanche meet the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday night in Denver.

United States goalie Connor Hellebuyck, left, gives up a goal to Canada's Nathan MacKinnon, as Canada's Sidney Crosby (87) looks on, during the first period of the 4 Nations Face-Off

Sidney Crosby shut down trade rumors linking him to the Colorado Avalanche, affirming his commitment to the Pittsburgh Penguins. Despite the team's struggles, he remains focused on helping the Penguins through difficult times.

Sidney Crosby has always been careful when talking about the NHL’s top players. Before facing the Colorado Avalanche on Tuesday, he was asked about Nathan MacKinnon’s view on Connor McDavid.

Speculation grows as Sidney Crosby might join the Colorado Avalanche to reunite with Nathan MacKinnon after showcasing chemistry at the 4 Nations Face-Off. With MacKinnon securing an eight-year contract and the Avalanche's strong Stanley Cup prospects,

Nathan MacKinnon, alternate captain for the Colorado Avalanche, excelled with two assists and points against the Pittsburgh Penguins, bringing his sea

Casey Mittelstadt scored the go-ahead goal on a power play with 4:09 remaining, and the Colorado Avalanche beat the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-1.