History of Sidney Crosby in Timeline
Sidney Crosby, nicknamed "Sid the Kid" and "The Next One," is a Canadian professional ice hockey player for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Drafted first overall in 2005, he is the team's captain and widely considered one of the greatest players of all time. His exceptional skills and achievements have cemented his legacy in the sport.
1974: Bernie Parent's Consecutive Conn Smythe Trophies
Bernie Parent won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1974 and 1975, becoming one of the few players to achieve consecutive awards.
1975: Bernie Parent's Consecutive Conn Smythe Trophies
Bernie Parent won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1974 and 1975, becoming one of the few players to achieve consecutive awards.
1976: Darryl Sittler's Ten-Point NHL Game
Crosby's teammates nicknamed him "Darryl" after he scored eight points in his first exhibition game, a reference to Darryl Sittler's ten-point NHL game in 1976.
1980: Youngest Scoring Champion in NHL History
Sidney Crosby became the youngest scoring champion in NHL history and the first teenager to achieve this feat since Wayne Gretzky in 1980.
1984: Troy Crosby Drafted by Montreal Canadiens
Troy Crosby was drafted 240th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 1984.
1985: Troy Crosby Wins President's Cup
Sidney Crosby's father, Troy, helped the Verdun Junior Canadiens win the 1985 President's Cup.
August 7, 1987: Birth of Sidney Crosby
Sidney Patrick Crosby was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia on August 7, 1987.
1991: Mario Lemieux's Consecutive Conn Smythe Trophies
Mario Lemieux won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1991 and 1992, joining a select group of players to achieve consecutive awards.
1992: Mario Lemieux's Consecutive Conn Smythe Trophies
Mario Lemieux won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1991 and 1992, joining a select group of players to achieve consecutive awards.
1992: Penguins Reach Stanley Cup Finals
The Penguins, led by Crosby, reached the Stanley Cup Finals in 2008 for the first time since 1992.
1997: Red Wings' Back-to-Back Championships
The Detroit Red Wings were the last team to win back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1997 and 1998, a feat the Penguins, led by Crosby, repeated in 2016 and 2017.
2001: Crosby Drafted by Truro Bearcats
Crosby was drafted by the Truro Bearcats in the 2001 MJAHL Draft at the age of 13.
2001: Penguins Return to Playoffs
With Crosby's exceptional performance and the emergence of young talents like Evgeni Malkin and Jordan Staal, the Penguins returned to the playoffs in the 2006-2007 season after a five-season absence, marking their first postseason appearance since 2001.
2002: Crosby Leads Dartmouth Subways to Second Place Finish
Crosby joined the triple-A Dartmouth Subways and led them to a second-place finish at the 2002 Air Canada Cup.
2002: Crosby Joins Shattuck-Saint Mary's
Due to harsh treatment from parents and players in Nova Scotia, Crosby decided to play for the American hockey program at Shattuck-Saint Mary's Boarding School, Minnesota for the 2002–03 hockey season.
December 2003: Youngest Player Named to Canada's World Junior Team
In December 2003, Crosby was selected to represent Canada at the World Junior Championships, becoming the fifth 16-year-old in history to achieve this.
2003: Crosby Drafted by Rimouski Océanic
Crosby was selected first overall in the 2003 Midget Draft by the Rimouski Océanic of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL).
2003: International Debut at U-18 Junior World Cup
In 2003, at the age of 16, Crosby made his debut on the international stage, representing Canada at the U-18 Junior World Cup. Despite a strong performance from Crosby, who scored four goals and six points, Team Canada finished with the bronze medal.
July 17, 2004: WHA Entry Draft
On July 17, 2004, Sidney Crosby was selected first overall by the Toronto franchise of the World Hockey Association (WHA) in their Entry Draft. Despite being offered a lucrative contract, Crosby declined, expressing his desire to play in the NHL.
2004: Dominating the QMJHL
Crosby returned to the Rimouski Océanic for the 2004-2005 season and continued his dominance, leading the league in goals, assists, and points. He won numerous awards, including his second consecutive Beliveau Trophy.
2004: Crosby vs. Ovechkin Rivalry Begins
Crosby's rookie season marked the beginning of his rivalry with Washington Capitals forward Alexander Ovechkin, who was the first overall pick in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. Their competition for the rookie scoring title and the Calder Memorial Trophy ignited a rivalry that would captivate the league for years to come.
2004: Youngest Goal Scorer at World Junior Championships
During the 2004 World Junior Championships, Crosby became the youngest player ever to score a goal in the history of the tournament, achieving this feat at the age of 16 years, 4 months, and 21 days. This record was later broken in 2012.
2004: Crosby's Jersey Auction Raises Funds for Charity
Proceeds from the auction of Crosby's jersey went towards supporting youth hockey programs and providing relief for the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake.
2004: NHL Lockout Impacts Draft
The 2004-2005 NHL lockout led to the implementation of a weighted lottery system for the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, based on teams' playoff appearances and draft lottery victories in the preceding four years.
January 2005: Crosby's Stolen Jersey Recovered; Auction Benefits Charity
In January 2005, one of Crosby's jerseys was stolen and later recovered. The incident highlighted his rising fame and the value associated with his memorabilia, which was later auctioned for charity.
July 30, 2005: 2005 NHL Entry Draft
Widely regarded as the top prospect, Sidney Crosby was selected first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. The draft was nicknamed the "Sidney Crosby Lottery" due to the weighted lottery system used to determine the draft order.
September 2005: Crosby's Jersey Becomes Top Seller
Crosby's No. 87 Pittsburgh Penguins jersey became the top seller on the NHL's website between September 2005 and February 2008, signifying his immediate impact on the league.
October 5, 2005: NHL Debut
Sidney Crosby made his NHL debut on October 5, 2005, against the New Jersey Devils, recording an assist in a 5-1 loss.
December 15, 2005: Named Alternate Captain
Despite drawing criticism from some hockey pundits, Crosby was named an alternate captain for the Penguins by coach Michel Therrien on December 15, 2005.
2005: Crosby's Arrival Revitalizes the Pittsburgh Penguins
The drafting of Sidney Crosby in 2005 marked a turning point for the struggling Pittsburgh Penguins. His arrival brought renewed hope, increased attendance, and secured the team's future in Pittsburgh.
2005: Start of the Salary Cap Era
The 2005-2006 NHL season marked the beginning of the salary cap era, making the Penguins' back-to-back Stanley Cup wins in 2016 and 2017 a more challenging accomplishment.
2005: Crosby Wins Gold at World Junior Championships
Sidney Crosby won a gold medal with Team Canada at the 2005 World Junior Championships.
2005: Sidney Crosby Drafted First Overall
Sidney Crosby was selected first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft.
2005: Crosby Graduates High School
Sidney Crosby graduated from Harrison Trimble High School in Moncton, New Brunswick in 2005.
2005: Crosby's Rookie Debut
Sidney Crosby entered the NHL in 2005, quickly gaining recognition as one of the league's best players.
2005: Crosby Moves in with the Lemieux Family
Sidney Crosby began living with Mario Lemieux and his family in Sewickley, Pennsylvania in 2005, forming a close bond with the family.
2005: Crosby's QMJHL Debut and Success
During his two-year major junior career with the Rimouski Océanic, Crosby earned many awards and led his club to the 2005 Memorial Cup final.
2005: Rookie Year Mentor
During his rookie year in 2005–06, Sidney Crosby was mentored by Mario Lemieux, which played a significant role in his early NHL career.
2005: World Junior Championship Gold Medal
Crosby was part of the Canadian team that won the gold medal at the 2005 World Junior Championships. He considers this victory his most memorable hockey moment.
2005: QMJHL Championship and Memorial Cup Appearance
Crosby led the Océanic to the President's Cup as QMJHL playoff champions in 2005. They advanced to the Memorial Cup final but lost to the London Knights. Crosby was named to the Tournament All-Star team and won the Ed Chynoweth Trophy as the leading scorer.
June 2006: Crosby Purchases First House in Nova Scotia
In June 2006, Sidney Crosby made his first real estate purchase, buying a house on Grand Lake in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
October 28, 2006: First NHL Hat-trick
Crosby scored his first NHL hat-trick on October 28, 2006, in a game against the Philadelphia Flyers, contributing to an 8-2 victory.
2006: Omitted from Olympic Team
Crosby was not included on Canada's roster for the 2006 Winter Olympics.
2006: World Championship Scoring Title
Following his rookie season in the NHL, Crosby participated in the 2006 IIHF World Championship, where he led the tournament in scoring with 16 points. He became the youngest player to win a World Championship scoring title but Canada failed to secure a medal.
January 2007: Mark Messier Leadership Award
In January 2007, Sidney Crosby received the Mark Messier Leadership Award, recognizing him as a superior leader within the sport, setting a positive example through on-ice performance, motivation of team members, and dedication to the community.
May 31, 2007: Youngest Captain in NHL History
On May 31, 2007, Sidney Crosby was named captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins, making him, at 19 years, 9 months, and 24 days old, the youngest captain in NHL history.
June 2007: Off-Season "Hat-Trick" of Awards
In June 2007, Sidney Crosby won the Hart Memorial Trophy, the Lester B. Pearson Award, and the Art Ross Trophy, becoming the youngest player in NHL history to win the Lester B. Pearson and the second youngest to win the Hart.
July 10, 2007: Contract Extension with the Penguins
On July 10, 2007, Crosby signed a five-year, $43.5 million contract extension with the Penguins, securing his place on the team through the 2012-2013 season.
2007: Crosby Named Penguins Captain
Sidney Crosby started the 2007-2008 season as the Pittsburgh Penguins' captain.
2007: Crosby Signs $8.7 Million Contract
Sidney Crosby signed a contract for $8.7 million per year in 2007, reflecting his birthdate of 8/7/87.
2007: Crosby's First All-Star Game Since 2007
In 2017, Crosby participated in his first NHL All-Star Game since 2007, showcasing his return to form after a period of injuries.
2007: Crosby's Game-Worn Jerseys Raise Thousands for Charity
In 2007, Crosby's game-worn jerseys from his first NHL game and the All-Star Game were auctioned to support Hurricane Katrina relief and Hockey Fights Cancer, respectively. His jerseys consistently fetched top dollar, demonstrating his popularity and charitable impact.
2007: Canada's Last World Championship Win
Before their victory in 2015, Canada's previous win at the World Championship was in 2007.
January 18, 2008: Ankle Injury
Crosby suffered a high ankle sprain in a game against the Tampa Bay Lightning on January 18, 2008, causing him to miss the 2008 All-Star Game.
February 2008: Crosby's Jersey Remains a Bestseller
Crosby's jersey continued to be a top seller even after his rookie season, solidifying his status as a fan favorite and a marketable star.
March 27, 2008: Return to Play
After recovering from his ankle injury, Crosby returned to the Penguins' lineup on March 27, 2008, helping them win against the New York Islanders.
October 18, 2008: Career Milestones
On October 18, 2008, Crosby scored his 100th goal, 200th assist, and 300th point in a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
2008: Crosby Leads Penguins to Stanley Cup Final
Crosby led the Pittsburgh Penguins to the 2008 Stanley Cup Finals, where they lost to the Detroit Red Wings.
December 30, 2009: Named to Canadian Olympic Team
Crosby was chosen to represent Canada at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, being named as an alternate captain for the team.
2009: Crosby Establishes the Sidney Crosby Foundation
Driven by his commitment to giving back, Sidney Crosby founded the Sidney Crosby Foundation in 2009. The organization focuses on supporting charities dedicated to improving the lives of children.
2009: Stanley Cup Victory and Controversy
In 2009, Crosby led the Penguins to their first Stanley Cup victory since 1992, becoming the youngest NHL captain to do so. However, he faced criticism for allegedly not shaking hands with some Detroit Red Wings players after the game.
2009: Rocket Richard Trophy and Mark Messier Leadership Award
In the 2009-10 season, Crosby tied for the lead in goals scored with 51 goals, earning the Rocket Richard Trophy. He also won the Mark Messier Leadership Award for the second time.
2009: Crosby Wins Mark Messier Leadership Award
Sidney Crosby received the Mark Messier Leadership Award in the 2009-2010 season.
2009: Last Full Season Before Injuries and Lockout
The 2009-10 season marked the last time Crosby played a full 80-game season before facing injury troubles and the 2012-13 NHL lockout. His return to a full season in 2013-14 was a testament to his resilience and recovery.
May 2010: Crosby Purchases Home in Sewickley
Maintaining a low profile, Sidney Crosby purchased a home in Sewickley, Pennsylvania in May 2010 after previously living with the Lemieux family.
May 29, 2010: Crosby Signs Record Endorsement Deal with Reebok
On May 29, 2010, Sidney Crosby inked the most lucrative endorsement agreement in NHL history at the time, signing with Reebok for an estimated $1.4 million annually over five to seven years.
July 27, 2010: First Skate at Consol Energy Center
On July 27, 2010, Sidney Crosby joined his mentor Mario Lemieux to be the first to skate on the new ice at the Consol Energy Center. This marked a significant moment as the two skated for about five minutes before being joined by young hockey fans.
November 5, 2010: Start of 25-Game Point Streak
On November 5, 2010, Sidney Crosby began a 25-game point streak against the Anaheim Ducks, which would become one of the longest in NHL history.
December 28, 2010: End of 25-Game Point Streak
Sidney Crosby's 25-game point streak ended on December 28, 2010, against the New York Islanders, having amassed 27 goals and 24 assists during this period.
2010: Olympic Gold Medal and "Golden Goal"
At the 2010 Winter Olympics, Crosby scored the game-winning goal in overtime against the United States, securing the gold medal for Canada. This iconic goal, dubbed the "Golden Goal," is considered a defining moment in Canadian sports history.
2010: Crosby Scores Game-Winning Goal at Olympics
Crosby scored the game-winning goal in overtime against the United States in the gold medal game at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
2010: Declines World Championship Invitation
Despite an invitation to join Team Canada, Crosby opted out of participating in the 2010 IIHF World Championship in Germany, following the Penguins' playoff exit.
2010: Crosby's Exceptional Speed and On-Ice IQ Challenge Teammates at Vancouver Olympics
During the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, coaches struggled to find linemates who could match Crosby's exceptional speed and on-ice intelligence.
2010: Crosby's Missing Olympic Gear Found
After winning gold with Canada at the 2010 Olympics, Crosby's stick and glove were misplaced and later found, highlighting the significance and value attributed to his equipment.
January 1, 2011: Hit Leading to Concussion
During the 2011 NHL Winter Classic on January 1, 2011, Crosby suffered a hit to the head from Dave Steckel, resulting in concussion symptoms that would impact his season.
January 3, 2011: 2011 All-Star Selection
On January 3, 2011, Sidney Crosby was selected as a 2011 All-Star. However, due to injuries, he was unable to participate in the game.
November 21, 2011: Return After Concussion
After missing the first 20 games of the 2011-12 season due to lingering concussion effects, Crosby returned on November 21, 2011, scoring two goals and two assists in a 5-0 shutout against the New York Islanders.
2011: Crosby Sidelined with Concussion
Crosby sustained a concussion in early 2011, sidelining him for the rest of the season and most of the 2011-2012 season.
March 15, 2012: Second Return from Concussion
Sidney Crosby returned to action on March 15, 2012, after recovering from concussion-like symptoms, recording two assists in a 5-2 win against the New York Rangers.
June 28, 2012: Crosby Signs 12-Year Contract Extension with Penguins
On June 28, 2012, Sidney Crosby agreed to a 12-year, $104.4 million contract extension with the Pittsburgh Penguins, securing his future with the team through the 2024-25 season.
September 15, 2012: NHL Lockout Begins
The 2012-13 NHL season was delayed due to a lockout imposed by the owners, starting on September 15, 2012. Crosby was actively involved in negotiations as a player representative.
2012: Record Broken for Youngest World Junior Goal
Crosby's record for the youngest goal scorer in World Junior Championship history, set in 2004, was surpassed in 2012 by Finland's Aleksander Barkov.
2012: Contract Expiration
Crosby's five-year contract extension, which he signed in 2007, was set to expire following the 2012-2013 season.
2012: Penguins' First First-Round Playoff Exit Since 2012
Despite high expectations, the Penguins, plagued by injuries, were eliminated in the first round of the 2015 playoffs by the New York Rangers. This marked their first first-round exit since the 2012 playoffs.
January 6, 2013: NHL Lockout Ends
The NHL lockout ended on January 6, 2013 after 119 days, allowing the shortened season to begin on January 19.
January 2013: Crosby Returns to Play After Lockout
The NHL season began in January 2013, after a lockout. Crosby had considered playing in Europe during the lockout but returned to lead the Penguins.
2013: Crosby's Return to Full Health and League-Leading Performance
In the 2013-14 season, Crosby played in all 80 games for the first time since the 2009-10 season, demonstrating his return to full health. He led the league with 68 assists and 104 points, winning the Art Ross Trophy for the second time.
2013: Penguins' Last Conference Final Appearance
The Pittsburgh Penguins, led by Sidney Crosby, last reached the Conference Final in 2013 before their back-to-back appearances in 2016 and 2017.
November 26, 2014: Crosby Achieves 800th Career Point
On November 26, 2014, Crosby scored his 800th career point against the Toronto Maple Leafs, achieving this milestone as the sixth-fastest player in NHL history.
2014: Taylor Crosby Joins Northeastern Huskies
Following in her brother's footsteps, Taylor Crosby joined the Northeastern Huskies women's ice hockey team as a freshman at Northeastern University in Boston in 2014.
2014: Crosby's Dominance Continues at Sochi Olympics
The challenge of finding suitable linemates for Crosby persisted at the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi, highlighting his exceptional skills and hockey IQ.
2014: Crosby Captains Canada to Olympic Gold
Crosby captained Team Canada at the 2014 Winter Olympics, winning his second consecutive Olympic gold medal.
2014: Playoff Disappointment and Management Changes
Despite a strong regular season in 2013-14, the Penguins experienced another playoff disappointment, leading to the firing of general manager Ray Shero and coach Dan Bylsma. Jim Rutherford and Mike Johnston were brought in as replacements.
2014: Crosby Wins Hart Memorial Trophy and Art Ross Trophy
Crosby won his second Hart Memorial Trophy and his second Art Ross Trophy in 2014.
2014: Olympic Gold Medal as Captain
Crosby was named captain of Team Canada for the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. He led the team to a gold medal victory, scoring a crucial goal in the final game against Sweden.
April 1, 2015: Crosby Scores 300th NHL Goal
Crosby reached another career milestone on April 1, 2015, scoring his 300th NHL goal against Steve Mason of the Philadelphia Flyers.
July 2015: Jonathan Quick Praises Crosby's Backhand Shot
In July 2015, Los Angeles Kings goalie Jonathan Quick lauded Crosby's backhand shot as the best in the NHL, attributing it to his flat blade and forearm strength.
December 12, 2015: Johnston Fired as Penguins Coach
On December 12, 2015, head coach Mike Johnston was fired by the Pittsburgh Penguins after a disappointing 15-10-3 start to the season.
2015: Crosby Signs Endorsement Deal with Adidas
Sidney Crosby secured a six-year endorsement agreement with Adidas in 2015, adding to his impressive portfolio of endorsements.
2015: Taylor Crosby Transfers to St. Cloud State University
In 2015, Taylor Crosby transferred to St. Cloud State University in Minnesota and played for the St. Cloud State Huskies women's ice hockey team until her graduation in 2018.
2015: Crosby Launches Hockey School and "Little Penguins Program"
In 2015, Sidney Crosby launched a hockey school in Cole Harbour, further demonstrating his dedication to his hometown. Additionally, his "Little Penguins Program" has provided free hockey equipment and lessons to over 10,000 children in Pittsburgh, reflecting his commitment to making hockey accessible.
2015: World Championship Title and Triple Gold Club
In 2015, Crosby captained Canada to a World Championship title, the country's first since 2007. This victory secured his place in the prestigious Triple Gold Club, making him the first member to have captained all three winning teams (Olympics, World Championship, Stanley Cup).
September 2016: Crosby Wins Emmy Award
Sidney Crosby won an Emmy Award in September 2016 for his contributions to the documentary "There's No Place Like Home With Sidney Crosby" and the "Merci Sidney" video, which commemorated his QMJHL jersey retirement in Rimouski.
September 2016: Wayne Gretzky Acknowledges Crosby as the Best Player
In September 2016, Wayne Gretzky declared Crosby as the best player in hockey, emphasizing his consistent performance and impact on important games.
October 2016: Mario Lemieux Highlights Crosby's Growth as a Complete Player
Mario Lemieux, in October 2016, praised Crosby's evolution into a complete player, emphasizing significant improvements in his defensive game.
2016: Crosby Leads Penguins to Stanley Cup Victory
Crosby led Pittsburgh to a Stanley Cup championship in 2016.
2016: Crosby's Concussion and Return
Crosby missed the start of the 2016-17 season due to a concussion but returned to score 30 goals in 45 games.
2016: Crosby's Comeback Season
Despite a slow start in 2016, Crosby turned his season around under new coach Mike Sullivan, outscoring all NHL players from December 12th onward. He won his second Stanley Cup title and the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.
2016: World Cup of Hockey Championship and MVP
Crosby captained Team Canada to victory at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, leading the tournament in scoring. He was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player and became one of only three players in history to win the Conn Smythe Trophy, Hart Memorial Trophy, and World Cup MVP.
2016: Crosby Leads Canada to World Cup of Hockey Gold
Crosby captained Canada to gold in the World Cup of Hockey in 2016 and was named MVP by a unanimous vote.
January 27, 2017: Crosby Named One of the 100 Greatest NHL Players
On January 27, 2017, Crosby was honored as one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players during the All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles.
February 16, 2017: Crosby Reaches 1,000 NHL Points
On February 16, 2017, Sidney Crosby reached the 1,000-point milestone in his NHL career, becoming the 12th-fastest player to do so.
June 2017: Canadians Vote Crosby as Greatest Athlete of the 21st Century
In June 2017, Canadians voted Sidney Crosby as the greatest athlete of the 21st century in a Sportsnet survey.
2017: Crosby Wins Second Richard Trophy
Crosby won his second Maurice Richard Trophy in 2017 and was named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players in history.
2017: Taylor Crosby Graduates from St. Cloud State University
Taylor Crosby completed her studies and graduated from St. Cloud State University in 2017, after a successful run with the Huskies women's ice hockey team.
February 11, 2018: Crosby Scores 400th NHL Goal
On February 11, 2018, Sidney Crosby scored his 400th NHL goal against Jake Allen of the St. Louis Blues, becoming the 95th player in NHL history to reach this milestone. The Penguins went on to win the game 4-1.
March 2018: NHLPA Players Vote Crosby as Most Difficult Opponent and Role Model
An NHLPA poll in March 2018 revealed that fellow players considered Crosby the toughest opponent, best role model, and ideal teammate.
April 2018: Crosby Named Nova Scotia's Best Athlete Ever
In April 2018, the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame bestowed upon Crosby the title of "Best athlete ever" from the province.
April 2018: Crosby's Work Ethic Lauded as Key to Sustained Success
An April 2018 article in The Washington Post highlighted Crosby's exceptional work ethic as a significant factor in his continued dominance in the NHL.
December 31, 2018: Crosby Plays 900th NHL Game
On December 31, 2018, Sidney Crosby played in his 900th NHL game. This game, a 3-2 win over the Minnesota Wild, marked Crosby as only the second player in Penguins history to reach this milestone.
January 3, 2019: Crosby Wins NHL All-Star Game MVP
On January 3, 2019, Sidney Crosby won his first NHL All-Star Game MVP award, making him the sixth player in NHL history to win this award after winning the Conn Smythe Trophy and Hart Memorial Trophy. He had been selected to play in the game for the eighth time that year, and helped secure the win for the Metropolitan Division with four goals and four assists.
March 2019: Peers Recognize Crosby as Best All-Around Player
An anonymous player survey conducted by The Athletic in March 2019 revealed that Crosby was widely regarded as the best all-around player in the NHL.
March 2019: Mike Sullivan Calls Crosby the "Heartbeat" of the Penguins
Pittsburgh Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan, in March 2019, described Crosby as the "best 200-foot player in the game" and the heart of the team.
September 2019: Jersey Retirement
In September 2019, the Rimouski Océanic retired jersey number 87 in honor of Sidney Crosby. The QMJHL also retired the number league-wide in recognition of his contributions to junior hockey.
2019: Océanic and QMJHL Retire Crosby's Number
The Rimouski Océanic and the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League retired Crosby's jersey number 87 in 2019.
January 2020: Crosby Selected for NHL All-Decade First Team
In January 2020, Sidney Crosby was selected to the NHL All-Decade First Team.
August 7, 2020: Crosby and the Penguins Eliminated From Playoffs
On August 7, 2020, Crosby's 33rd birthday, he and the Penguins were eliminated from the playoffs by the Montreal Canadiens in an upset. The Canadiens had finished 12th in the Eastern Conference, while the Penguins were fifth.
2020: Named to IIHF All-Time Canadian Team
In recognition of his outstanding international career, Crosby was named to the IIHF All-Time Canadian Team in 2020.
February 20, 2021: Crosby Plays 1,000th Game with the Penguins
On February 20, 2021, during a 3-2 win over the New York Islanders, Sidney Crosby became the first player in Penguins history to play 1,000 games with the franchise.
October 3, 2021: Crosby Named to Canada's Olympic Roster
On October 3, 2021, Sidney Crosby was chosen as one of the first three players to represent Canada's men's hockey team at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.
February 15, 2022: Crosby Scores 500th Career Goal
On February 15, 2022, Sidney Crosby scored his 500th career goal against the Philadelphia Flyers. He became the 46th player in NHL history to achieve this milestone, and the 18th player to score all 500 goals for the same team.
November 5, 2022: 900th Career Assist
On November 5, 2022, during a game against the Seattle Kraken, Crosby achieved his 900th career assist on a goal by teammate Jake Guentzel. This milestone made him the sixth-fastest player in NHL history to reach that number of assists.
2022: Crosby Misses Out on Beijing Olympics Due to NHL Decision
Crosby was unable to participate in the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics because the NHL decided not to send its players due to scheduling disruptions caused by the Omicron variant. He expressed disappointment, particularly for those who had missed multiple opportunities.
2022: Crosby Dubbed "Most Dominant Team-Sport Winter Olympian"
Leading up to the 2022 Winter Olympics, Rob Rossi of The Athletic recognized Crosby as arguably North America's most dominant team-sport Winter Olympian.
November 4, 2023: 1,200th NHL Game
On November 4, 2023, Crosby played his 1,200th NHL game, marking a significant milestone in his career. He also contributed an assist during the game, a 10-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks.
April 1, 2024: Point-Per-Game Streak
Crosby achieved a point per game average for the 19th consecutive season on April 1, 2024. This accomplishment put him in the company of Wayne Gretzky as the only players in NHL history to reach this milestone.
September 16, 2024: Contract Extension with Penguins
Sidney Crosby signed a two-year contract extension with the Pittsburgh Penguins on September 16, 2024, worth $17.4 million. The deal solidified his commitment to the team.
2024: End of Contract Extension
Crosby's 12-year contract extension signed in 2012, is set to keep him with the Penguins through the 2024-25 NHL season.