Sidney Crosby Close to Contract Extension with Pittsburgh Penguins Worth $104.4 Million

There's a vote of confidence.

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In the last 18 months, Sidney Crosby has only played in 28 games since suffering a concussion on January 1, 2011 against the Washington Capitals. Still, the Pittsburgh front office is poised to keep Crosby in a Penguins jersey for the rest of his career, regardless of how long or short that may be. Today, the Penguins' website announced that the team is finalizing a new, 12-year deal that will kick in for the 2013-14 season worth an astounding $104.4 million. 

Since he was drafted with the #1 overall pick in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, Sidney has had quite the roller coaster career for someone who is still only 24 years old. In 2007, Crosby won the Hart Memorial Trophy, which is given to the most valuable player in the league. However, over the last couple of years, Penguins center has endured a persistent battle with concussions. But with this contract extension, the Penguins front office is vehemently stating that Crosby is a part of their future plans. Of course, the deal will not be fully insurable due to his bout with past head injuries and also for the simple fact that "no NHL contract longer than seven years is fully insurable."     

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[via ESPN]

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