We are almost a full year into Ron Hextall’s reign as GM of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Sidney Crosby’s squad has delivered a strong message to the boss.

The Penguins are not ready for a rebuild. They’re still intent on being a contender.

“They’re a good group, they’re a character group. They know how to win. Terrific culture here. And never bet against Sid,” Hextall told The Athletic in an interview Monday.

“Obviously it’s more than Sid, but he’s the driver.”

It’s as if No. 87 heard the rebuild whispers when Hextall took over as GM last February and said, ‘Not on my watch.’

“When you have Crosby, you always have a chance of winning,” a rival GM said in a text message Monday, as we discussed the Penguins’ refusal to adhere to the normal cycle of NHL life.

And let’s be honest: We have been waiting for the train to go off the rails with this team. It’s only natural. You can’t go on forever. The core is aging. The Kings and Blackhawks had to rebuild. It only stands to reason the Penguins will at some point, too.

Just not quite yet.

Hextall, along with president of hockey operations Brian Burke, arrived on the scene last year with an open mind. But also with the green light to do what was necessary. If it was determined after last season that it was time for a rebuild, so be it.

But after 11 months on the job, it’s clear the Penguins players have dictated an alternate path. They’re still in this to win. The window isn’t closed.