Just a look back on the approach of an already cup-winning generational talent that put team first and went on to win two more cups and cement a hall of fame legacy.
Sidney Crosby signs 12-year, $104.4M US extension
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While the $104.4-million US, 12-year contract extension he agreed to on Thursday is clearly a massive haul, the NHL's most recognizable player could certainly have fetched more. Consider that the new deal will carry the exact same $8.7-million annual cap hit as his current one.
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"He just came back after he talked to Pat, near the end here, and just said 'This [salary] is really what I want to help out with the team,'" Shero said on a conference call. "We certainly appreciate and ownership appreciates that. It's very beneficial and says a lot about Crosby."
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Crosby could have asked for the league maximum of roughly $14 million per season, but instead decided to remain the NHL's second-highest paid player.
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However, by signing for less than market value, he left the Penguins in a good position to make a strong pitch for Zach Parise and Ryan Suter when free agency opens on Sunday.
"We'll be making phone calls," said Shero. "A lot of other teams will be [too]."
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In the end, if Johnny either just wants to be close to home or just wants a big payout, I'll be disappointed. He's entitled to have his own priorities and I wouldn't hold that against him, but either way it would indicate his priorities aren't really aligned with the team, so it's not a fit.