NHL analyst opines on whether Sidney Crosby can cement his place among all-time greats

By Ankit Kumar

Modified Jul 11, 2024 17:05 GMT

In a recent edition of "Harvey's Hot Takes" on SC with Jay Onrait, NHL insider Bryan Hayes shared his thoughts on Sidney Crosby's legacy. He also talked about his potential contract extension with the Pittsburgh Penguins. With Crosby reportedly close to securing an extension, Hayes provides valuable insights into what the future may hold for the hockey legend.

"It's not like he's going to play another decade here. We're talking probably a three-year deal, maybe four years left," Hayes remarked. "He's still at the top of his game or real close to it. He's still one of the 10 best players in the game, which is just an incredible achievement for him.

"But it's about individual success now. He's chasing Mario Lemieux in terms of all the team records. If he really gets hot and stays healthy for three or four years, maybe he can chase down Jaromir Jagr."

Sidney Crosby has played 19 seasons with Pittsburgh having recorded 592 goals, 1004 assists and 217 plus-minus in 1272 games. He has two Hart Trophies and three Conn Smythe Trophies together with three Stanley Cups, making him one of the few to have won these honors.

Despite a challenging season for the Penguins, Crosby's performance was one of his career-best in the 2023-24 season. He scored 94 points, including his third 40-plus goal season. Although the Penguins narrowly missed the playoffs by there points, losing the wild card spot to the Washington Capitals, Crosby's efforts were pivotal in keeping the team competitive.

As Crosby nears the twilight of his career, his pursuit of personal milestones and team records becomes ever more significant. Currently trailing behind Mario Lemieux in the Penguins' all-time records and eyeing Jaromir Jagr's achievements, Crosby's focus on individual success could further cement his place among hockey's all-time greats.

Sidney Crosby fan asked for a special request from prospect Brayden Yager

A young Pittsburgh Penguins fan eagerly asked prospect Brayden Yager at a youth clinic about meeting Sidney Crosby and getting his autograph. In a video posted by the Penguins, Yager explained that Crosby wasn't at the clinic. The fan, expressing his admiration for Crosby as the best player on the Penguins, cleverly asked Yager to sign Crosby's name for him.

“Could you sign Sidney Crosby’s name on my thing because he’s not here?” the young fan asked Yager (via NHL.com).

Yager, laughing, declined, saying it wouldn't count as Crosby's signature. Yager later remarked to a fellow prospect,

“Dude, this kid’s a beauty.”

The enthusiastic young fan left a strong impression on Yager.