How Sidney Crosby Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

A detailed timeline of the impact and legacy of Sidney Crosby across different fields.

Sidney Crosby, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, captains the Pittsburgh Penguins in the NHL. Drafted first overall in 2005, he was highly touted and nicknamed "Sid the Kid" and "The Next One". Widely considered one of the greatest hockey players ever, Crosby was born and raised in Halifax.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

2005: Crosby's Impact on the Pittsburgh Penguins

In 2005, drafting Sidney Crosby significantly changed the trajectory of the struggling Pittsburgh Penguins. His arrival helped secure funding for a new arena and ended speculation about the franchise relocating. In the 2005–06 season, his presence boosted Pittsburgh's attendance by 33% and reinvigorated hockey in the Pittsburgh area.

June 2017: Canadians Vote Crosby Greatest Athlete of the 21st Century

In June 2017, Sidney Crosby was voted by Canadians as the greatest athlete of the 21st century in a survey conducted by Sportsnet.

2017: Second Richard Trophy and NHL Top 100

In 2017, Sidney Crosby won his second Richard Trophy and was named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players in history.

March 2018: NHL Players Vote Crosby as a Top Player

In March 2018, a poll conducted by the NHLPA of more than 500 players resulted in Sidney Crosby being voted the "most difficult to play against, best role model, best team player, the player you'd want to win one game, and the player who would be a great coach upon retirement".

April 2018: Crosby Chosen as Nova Scotia's Best Athlete Ever

In April 2018, Sidney Crosby was chosen as Nova Scotia's "Best athlete ever" by the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to the sport and the region.

September 2019: Jersey Retirement

In September 2019, the Rimouski Océanic retired jersey number 87 in Sidney Crosby's honor, and the QMJHL also retired the number for all of its teams.

2019: Jersey Retired

In 2019, the Rimouski Océanic and the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League retired Sidney Crosby's jersey number 87, marking a tribute to his major junior career.

2022: Crosby dubbed North America's most dominant team-sport Winter Olympian

Four months before the 2022 Winter Olympics, Rob Rossi of The Athletic called Sidney Crosby "arguably North America's most dominant team-sport Winter Olympian." highlighting his performances in previous Olympic games.

2025: Sidney Crosby Trophy

In 2025, the QMJHL began presenting their Rookie of the Year award as the “Sidney Crosby Trophy,” establishing a lasting legacy for Crosby in the league.