Crosby, Malkin, Letang: A Two-Decade Statistical Overview for Penguins Trio

Why it matters locally: The longevity and success of the Pittsburgh Penguins' core trio represent a significant historical milestone for a major sports franchise located in Pennsylvania, impacting the state's sports landscape and cultural identity.

The Pittsburgh Penguins' trio of Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang concluded their 20th season together, marking a collective 3,924 games played. The group accumulated three Stanley Cup victories (2009, 2016, 2017) and made 17 playoff appearances during their tenure. In January 2026, the three players reached 1,000 regular-season games played together, a record among trios in North America's four major sports leagues. This surpassed the San Antonio Spurs' trio of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili, who played 718 games together, and the New York Yankees' core of Derek Jeter, Jorge Posada, and Mariano Rivera, who played 17 seasons as a trio. Individually, Crosby, Malkin, and Letang contributed a combined 3,974 points and 1,365 goals. Crosby finished the 2025-26 season with 74 points (29 goals, 45 assists) in 68 games. Malkin recorded 61 points (19 goals, 42 assists) in 56 games, achieving a +13 rating. Letang posted 34 points (3 goals, 31 assists) in 74 games with a -4 rating. The trio's career achievements include three Hart Trophies (MVP awards) among them. Crosby holds the NHL's active career points lead, and Letang holds the record for most postseason goals by an active defenseman.