“We’re still finishing”: Pittsburgh Penguins coach Dan Muse opens up about Sidney Crosby’s role in leading the team | NHL News
A new chapter has begun for the Pittsburgh Penguins. With a new coach in place, fans are waiting to see how things will change. But instead of looking for something completely fresh, the Penguins may lean on familiar names. Coach Dan Muse is now in charge, and the message he just gave about the team’s veteran stars has everyone talking.
Dan Muse shares his thoughts on Sidney Crosby , Kris Letang , and veteran leadership
On Wednesday, June 5, 2025, newly hired Penguins head coach Dan Muse spoke to the media and gave some honest views about the team’s experienced core- Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang, and Evgeni Malkin. The three have led Pittsburgh for nearly two decades. Crosby has been with the team for 20 years, Letang and Malkin for 19 seasons each.Muse said he has already spoken to most of the players. “I’ve reached out to close to 95% of all players under contract. We’re still finishing that part up,” Muse said in a report by Pens Inside Scoop. He made it clear that the team will rely on players like Crosby and Letang moving forward.He praised their leadership and the way they’ve represented the Penguins for so long. “You’re always working with the leaders. Guys who have been in this organization for such a long time. You’re going to be leaning on them,” Muse added.Muse is 42 years old. Before joining Pittsburgh, he worked as an assistant coach for the New York Rangers. This is his first head coaching job in the NHL. Though he is only a few years older than some of the veterans, he seems ready to trust and work with them during this transition.Also Read: Dan Muse Takes Over As Pittsburgh Penguins Head Coach After Impressive NHL Rise
Pittsburgh Penguins GM Kyle Dubas explains why Dan Muse was chosen
Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas also shared his thoughts on why Muse was picked for this important role. In an NHL.com interview, Dubas said, “It became clear that he was somebody that was going to be extraordinarily well-suited to develop all of our players. Not just our young players, but all of them.”Dubas made it a point to not hire someone just because they were known to him or to the team. He wanted to bring in a fresh perspective and someone who would connect well with players, both old and new.Even though Muse never played professional hockey at a high level—his career stopped at Division III college—his fast rise in coaching shows his deep knowledge and commitment to the sport.With a group full of experienced stars and a coach ready to listen and lead, the Penguins’ new season will be one to watch.
