I get that,
but you could play that game with Kane too, who is the greatest american born player of all time; he put up 92 points the year prior to being traded, and was playing at a good level being around 33 years old (4 years younger than how old Crosby will be next year) -- look at the return that was.
i normally would agree with you but he's a pending UFA, there is never going to be a haul like you're suggesting for that, especially if he wants out and wants to go to just one destination - the avs.
we'll agree to disagree but I see your points and dont really think it's as impossible as Crosby's reputation would suggest.
Pits needs to rebuild for any assets they can get. A pending UFA for a no.2 Center (no.1 center on a rebuilding team like Buf) + prospects + picks is a great haul to build from; because it's better than losing him for nothing.