TORONTO – Sidney Crosby was answering uncomfortable questions about his future.

The Pittsburgh Penguins superstar sat down with a small group of reporters in Las Vegas at the NHL’s player media tour in September.

He acknowledged rumours about the potential for an eventual trade away from the only franchise he’s ever known — one pivoting toward a full rebuild following three straight springs outside the playoffs.

“I understand it,” Crosby said at the time. “It’s not something that you want to discuss.”

Less than two months later, the tone has changed dramatically with the Penguins off to a surprising start, at least to those outside their locker room, under rookie head coach Dan Muse.

A roster with Hall of Fame talent in the twilight of careers coupled with peach-fuzzed youngsters, rol

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