Sidney Crosby injury: Penguins star out at least four weeks after awkward hit in 2026 Winter Olympics
CBS Sports
by
Carter Bahns
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Sidney Crosby, the star of the Pittsburgh Penguins, will miss at least four weeks of the NHL season due to a lower-body injury sustained during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina. The injury occurred during Canada's semifinal match against Czechia, where an awkward collision with Radko Gudas and Martin Necas forced Crosby to leave the game. Despite Team Canada's win, Crosby was unable to participate in the gold medal match against the United States, leaving a significant void on both the ice and for his team.
Crosby's injury not only affected Canada's performance in the Olympics but also has major implications for the Penguins as they prepare for the NHL playoffs. With 27 goals and 32 assists before the Olympic break, Crosby was pacing towards another stellar season with potential for at least 90 points. His absence will likely hinder the Penguins' Stanley Cup chances, particularly given their position in the Metro Division standings.
The Penguins face a challenging playoff push without their leading scorer, who has been a cornerstone of the team since joining the NHL. At age 38, Crosby's leadership and productivity have been unparalleled, making his extended recovery a significant loss for the franchise. The injury highlights the risks associated with high-stakes international tournaments like the Olympics, where player welfare can take precedence over competitive outcomes.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/25/2026