NHL insider hints at big changes coming to Pittsburgh.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have been one of the National Hockey League's most competitive franchises over the course of the last 15 years and a large part of that has come as a result of the team's big three: Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang. Following the team's elimination from the Stanley Cup playoffs in Game 7 of their opening round series against the New York Rangers, many have wondered what will come next for the core of the Penguins as the team looks towards the future.

Following their exit in Game 7 , NHL insider Elliotte Friedman hinted at the fact that he thinks there may be big changes ahead for the franchise.

"Is this the end of an era?" asked Friedman following their loss on Sunday night.

Friedman initially would name 5 players but he was cut off by his co-hosts on the segment.

"Malkin, Letang, Rust, Rodriguez, Rakell," began Friedman before being cut off.

When he began again he shortened that list to just 3 names, but once again hinted at the changes that may be forthcoming.

"The big ones Malkin, Letang and Rust, Pittsburgh could be doing a course change," said Friedman in conclusion.

It appears as though the players themselves may be aware that changes are on the horizon for the Penguins. Penguins captain Sidney Crosby was asked about the core staying together after this season, and although he said he loved playing with his teammates he also admitted that these types of decisions are out of his hands.

"It's not up to me, but obviously I've had a great experience playing with these guys over the years and know what they bring," said the Penguins captain when asked about the core staying together, "Love our group."

All 3 of the players mentioned by Elliotte Friedman are currently under contract with the Penguins, but that will change in relatively short order unless contract extensions are signed. Malkin, Letang and Rust will all be unrestricted free agents when free agency opens this summer if the Penguins haven't locked them down with new deals.