Sidney Crosby, a living legend in the NHL, is no stranger to the immense pressure and expectations that come with being dubbed “hockey’s next big thing.” The two-time Hart Trophy winner and future Hall of Famer has carried the weight of those expectations since the Pittsburgh Penguins selected him first overall in the 2005 NHL Draft, just weeks before his 18th birthday.
Over the past two decades, Crosby has not only met but exceeded those expectations, delivering Stanley Cup championships, a state-of-the-art arena in downtown Pittsburgh, and transforming western Pennsylvania into a hockey hotbed. He has been the face of both his franchise and the entire league, accumulating an impressive 1,502 points and counting.
Now, a new rising star has emerged in the NHL, Chicago Blackhawks rookie Connor Bedard, who has drawn comparisons to Crosby and idolized him growing up. Bedard, born just two weeks before Crosby’s arrival in Pittsburgh, was chosen first overall in the draft, similar to Crosby’s path.
When Bedard steps onto the ice at the PPG Paints Arena, he sees more than just an idol in Crosby; he sees a mentor who understands the unique challenges that lie ahead. Crosby, at 36 years old, acknowledges that he’s no longer the wunderkind he once was but still possesses an insatiable appetite for the game, a trait that has set him apart throughout his career.
Crosby’s passion for hockey remains undiminished, and he continues to learn and absorb the game, always searching for an edge. His 1,370 games of maintaining an unmatched standard have made him a wiser version of himself. Last season, he recorded an impressive 33 goals and 60 assists while playing all 82 games, despite the Penguins’ streak of consecutive playoff appearances ending at 16.
For Bedard, understanding the responsibility that comes with the spotlight is essential, and he looks up to Crosby as a role model. While he may feel starstruck initially, he knows that facing Crosby on the ice is an opportunity to compete against the best in the NHL, just as Crosby did when he was a young player.
Crosby emphasizes the thrill of playing against young talents, embracing the challenge and showcasing his enduring passion for the game. As the NHL’s future meets its past on the ice, Crosby’s legacy continues to inspire and guide the next generation of hockey stars.
In a league filled with “Next Sidney Crosbys,” the original version remains determined to prove that his fire burns as brightly as ever as he enters his 19th season. While the future of the NHL looks promising with players like Bedard, Crosby’s impact and influence on the sport are far from fading. The torch may be passed someday, but for now, Sidney Crosby remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of hockey.
