Sidney Crosby, the longtime Pittsburgh Penguins captain and one of hockey’s all-time greats, suffered a lower-body injury during Canada’s dramatic 4-3 overtime quarterfinal victory over Czechia on Feb. 18, 2026, at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, leaving his status uncertain for the semifinals as Team Canada advances without its leader.
Crosby, 38, left the game in the second period after a heavy hit from Czech defenseman Radko Gudas caused his legs to buckle, followed by additional contact along the boards. He favored his right leg while exiting and did not return, with Hockey Canada confirming the lower-body issue. Coach Jon Cooper expressed hope for his return, stating post-game that “this will not be Sid’s last game at the Olympics,” though Crosby will undergo evaluation.
The injury overshadowed Canada’s comeback win, powered by Mitch Marner’s overtime goal and contributions from Nathan MacKinnon and Nick Suzuki, but it adds urgency to Canada’s medal pursuit in a tournament featuring NHL stars for the first time since 2014.
Here are 10 key things to know about Crosby, whose career blends generational talent, resilience and historic achievements.
- Generational Talent and Early Hype Born Aug. 7, 1987, in Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, Crosby was dubbed “The Next One” as a youth phenom. Drafted first overall by Pittsburgh in 2005, he became the youngest NHL captain at 19 in 2007 and led the Penguins to three Stanley Cups (2009, 2016, 2017).
- Olympic Gold Medal Hero Crosby scored the golden goal in overtime to win Canada’s 2010 Vancouver Olympics title against the U.S., one of the most iconic moments in hockey history. He added gold in Sochi 2014, making him a two-time Olympic champion. His 2026 participation marked his third Games, with aspirations for a third gold before the injury.
- NHL Scoring and Records Crosby has amassed 652 goals and 1,094 assists for 1,746 points in 1,408 games through early 2026. He ranks among the all-time leaders, surpassing Mario Lemieux as the Penguins’ all-time points leader (1,724) on Dec. 22, 2025, and moving into eighth in NHL history. In 2025-26, he has 27 goals and 59 points in 56 games despite Pittsburgh’s struggles.
- Award Dominance Crosby owns two Art Ross Trophies (scoring titles), two Hart Trophies (MVP), two Ted Lindsay Awards (players’ MVP) and two Conn Smythe Trophies (playoff MVP). He is the only player to captain teams to a Stanley Cup, Olympic gold, world championship and World Cup of Hockey victory.
- Resilience Through Injuries Known for durability, Crosby overcame major setbacks like a 2009-10 concussion saga that sidelined him for months. He has maintained elite production, averaging over a point per game in his 20th season and tying records for longevity.
- Leadership and Clutch Play Crosby’s “Sid the Kid” nickname evolved into a respected veteran presence. He led Canada to victory in the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off and remains a power-play specialist and faceoff expert, often elevating teammates in big moments.
- Recent Milestones In March 2025, Crosby became the only player in NHL history to average over a point per game across 20 seasons. His 2025-26 season includes strong output despite team challenges, with 10 power-play goals and consistent two-way impact.
- Contract and Loyalty Crosby signed a two-year, $17.4 million extension ($8.7 million AAV) in September 2024, running through 2026-27 with a full no-movement clause. He has spent his entire career with Pittsburgh, rejecting trade rumors amid the team’s rebuild.
- Off-Ice Influence Crosby ranks among the NHL’s 100 Greatest Players and inspires with work ethic and humility. His Olympic return highlighted “best-on-best” hockey, drawing massive attention despite the Penguins’ playoff misses in recent years.
- Legacy and 2026 Outlook At 38, Crosby’s Olympic injury adds uncertainty, but his track record suggests resilience. A potential third gold would cement him as one of Canada’s greatest, while his NHL dominance continues to redefine longevity for elite forwards.
As Canada prepares for the semifinals on Feb. 20, all eyes turn to Crosby’s evaluation and recovery timeline. His presence has defined eras in hockey, and fans hope he returns to chase another historic moment.
