"The age, the narrative, it doesn't change" - Sidney Crosby savors Connor Bedard challenge as he looks to turn back the clock 

By Arnab Mondal

Modified Oct 06, 2023 14:56 GMT

Sidney Crosby, the Pittsburgh Penguins captain, is gearing up for the 2023-24 NHL season with a mindset that defies his age of 36. As the league trends toward younger talent, Crosby does not see this as a threat but rather an opportunity to reaffirm his prowess. In an article by Wes Crosby from NHL.com, he shares his perspective on embracing the challenge posed by the younger generation, exemplifying the grit and passion that have defined his storied career.

"I just love to compete," Crosby asserts.

"If the young guy is coming up or being touted as the best, what a great opportunity that is to be able to go out there and go head-to-head against those guys," he added.

Crosby's passion for the game remains undiminished, evident from his 93-point performance last season, making him a constant force on the ice. His remarkable consistency, averaging at least one point per game in 18 seasons, is a testament to his enduring greatness.

While he may not match the point production of younger stars like Connor McDavid, Crosby has evolved into a well-rounded player. Penguins coach Mike Sullivan lauds him for having "the best 200-foot game in the NHL." Crosby's adaptability and love for the sport have made him wiser.

"That's why you love the opportunity to play in the NHL and do that every night. So that's what I get up for. The age, the narrative, it doesn't change," Crosby emphasizes.

His innate curiosity and appetite for the game have propelled him to greatness. Sullivan adds,

"He's a student of the game in so many ways. I don't think it's by accident he's as good as he is."

As he faces off against rising star Connor Bedard and other young talents, Crosby welcomes the comparisons and finds it a compliment.

"They're pretty good players. They're pretty skilled," he says, demonstrating his respect for the next generation.

Crosby's hunger for competition and unwavering commitment to the game continue to define his legacy as one of the NHL's all-time greats.

Sidney Crosby's insatiable appetite for hockey excellence

Crosby is renowned for his exceptional talent and unrelenting work ethic on the ice. What truly distinguishes him is his insatiable passion for the game, which transcends mere skill refinement. Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan offers insight into Crosby's unique approach, emphasizing his role as an earnest student of the sport:

"He watches hockey all the time... 'hey, did you see that Colorado play on the power play? That's a really nice play. We should think about that.'"

Crosby's dedication and meticulous attention to detail drive his relentless pursuit of improvement, setting him apart as an extraordinary player driven by a quest for greatness.