The Greatest Captain in Hockey History: What Sidney Crosby means to Team Canada
MONTREAL, Quebec – “Mario! Mario! Mario!” Those words were chanted with great enthusiasm as Mario Lemieux entered the Bell Centre moments before puck drop for Canada and Sweden's opening night tilt at the 4 Nations Face Off.
But he wasn't the only former QMJHL legend to be serenaded on Wednesday evening.
"Crosby! Crosby! Crosby!" The evening ended with Sidney Crosby receiving his well deserved flowers as Canada defeated Sweden in overtime.
The man of the hour, once again, was Sid. At 37 years old, Canada's captain is the oldest player at the event. He was also named Player of the Game thanks to a three assist performance – setting up both the opening goal, the 3-1 tally, and Mitchell Marner's overtime winner.
It's nothing new for a player who has built a resume that places him as the greatest captain in Canadian hockey history. Perhaps even the greatest of all time.
After Wednesday evening's performance, Crosby has produced a staggering 70 points in 55 international games. He's won two Olympic gold medals, one each at Men’s Worlds and World Juniors, and a World Cup title. He is the only player in the IIHF Triple Gold Club to win all three legs as team captain – Olympic gold, IIHF World Championship gold, and a Stanley Cup(s).
Now here's the truly crazy part. Canada hasn't lost a game internationally with Sidney Crosby in the lineup in over 15 years. They're 26-0. 22-0 with him as captain.
“He’s amazing." line mate Connor McDavid told media postgame. “It’s a credit to how much he puts into his work ethic, a credit to how he takes care of himself, a credit to how smart he is out there. Just gets it done time and time again. He did that again tonight.”
McDavid wasn't the only one to heap praise on the captain. Head coach, Jon Cooper wasn't shy in seeing things our way.
"He will go down as the greatest player to represent his country."
We agree, Jon.
