Veteran forward Kevin Hayes joined after an underwhelming season in St. Louis, along with a 2025 second-round draft pick, a not inconsequential development for one of the league's oldest teams. Defenseman Sebastian Aho signed a two-year deal as the Penguins attempt to fortify the blue line behind Letang, Karlsson and Marcus Pettersson.

Crosby’s contract is designated 35-plus, a notable status per the collective bargaining agreement between the NHL and its Players Association. The contract includes two signing bonuses — a choice, essentially, by Crosby and agent Pat Brisson to get the bulk of the actual money paid before Crosby plays the final season of the new deal.