Nathan MacKinnon had high praise for Sidney Crosby following Team Canada’s 5-3 victory over Finland in the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament. The Colorado Avalanche forward, who secured Player of the Game honors with two goals, credited his childhood idol for setting him up on one of them.
Crosby, the 36-year-old veteran and three-time Stanley Cup champion, continues to showcase why he remains one of the most influential players in hockey. He notched a goal and an assist, helping propel Canada to the tournament final against the United States.
MacKinnon on Crosby: “He’s Still One of the Best Passers in the Game”
Speaking to reporters after the game, MacKinnon didn’t hold back his admiration for Crosby, who has been a major figure in Canadian hockey for nearly two decades.
“Yeah. I mean, he was my favorite player growing up. I think a lot of us, he was our favorite player,” MacKinnon said. “So you know he’s still one of the best passers in the game, one of the best players. So, I’m just standing around, and he’s giving me tap-ins right now, so it’s going well.”
MacKinnon, who is locked into an eight-year, $100.8 million contract with the Avalanche through 2030-31, demonstrated why he is worth every penny. The star forward opened the scoring early, capitalizing on a setup from Sam Reinhart. He later doubled down with his second goal off a brilliant feed from Crosby, extending Canada’s lead to 4-0 in the second period.
Sidney Crosby Continues to Shine for Team Canada
Despite being 37, Crosby is proving that age is just a number. His performance in the 4 Nations Face-Off has been stellar, registering five points, including a clutch empty-net goal against Finland to seal Canada’s victory.
Team Canada head coach Jon Cooper had nothing but admiration for Crosby’s leadership and impact on the ice.
“In our country, he walks on water. And he’s as humble as they come,” Cooper said after the win.
Crosby has long been the backbone of Team Canada, leading them to multiple international triumphs, including two Olympic gold medals. His track record while wearing the Canadian jersey speaks for itself, and Cooper doubled down on his belief that Crosby belongs in the conversation of the greatest to ever represent Canada.
“It’s no coincidence his record while wearing a Canadian jersey. That’s not a fluke. He will go down as the greatest player to ever represent his country,” Cooper emphasized. “If not, he’s on the Mount Rushmore, for sure.”
Canada vs. USA: A Final Showdown for the 4 Nations Face-Off Title
With the victory over Finland, Team Canada now sets its sights on a rematch against Team USA in the tournament final on February 20. Canada suffered a 3-1 defeat to their North American rivals earlier in the competition, adding an extra layer of intensity to the upcoming clash.
Connor McDavid, who also found the back of the net early against Finland, will play a pivotal role alongside Crosby and MacKinnon as Canada looks to reclaim dominance on the international stage.
Can Crosby lead his nation to another championship? One thing is for certain—when the lights shine brightest, No. 87 is always ready to deliver.
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