Milan, Italy – A significant blow to Team Canada’s hopes for Olympic gold: captain Sidney Crosby will not play in Sunday’s gold medal game against the United States. The news, confirmed by multiple sources, comes after Crosby sustained an injury during Wednesday’s quarterfinal win over the Czech Republic.
The 38-year-traditional Crosby, a two-time Olympic gold medalist (2010, 2014), attempted to return to the ice, even skating in a closed practice on Saturday, but ultimately couldn’t overcome the injury. This likely marks the end of Crosby’s Olympic career, leaving a void in Canada’s lineup as they pursue a championship against their rivals.
Crosby’s Injury and Recovery Attempt
The injury occurred during the quarterfinal match against the Czech Republic when Crosby’s right leg bent awkwardly after a hit from defenseman Radko Gudas. He subsequently missed Friday’s semifinal victory over Finland. Despite the setback, Crosby remained determined to play in the gold medal game, a testament to his leadership and dedication to Team Canada.
Head coach Jon Cooper acknowledged Crosby’s efforts but emphasized the importance of not risking further injury. “He won’t put himself in harm’s way,” Cooper said, as reported by TSN. “He’s not gonna put the team in harm’s way. Obviously, we’d love to have him. That determination will be made.” Cooper also ruled out the possibility of dressing Crosby as a 13th forward simply for inspirational purposes, stating the need for a player capable of contributing on the ice.
Impact on Team Canada’s Lineup
With Crosby sidelined, Nick Suzuki will slot into the second line alongside Mitch Marner and Mark Stone, according to TSN. Team Canada will be without defenseman Josh Morrissey, who is also unable to play due to a lower-body injury sustained earlier in the tournament, and goaltender Darcy Kuemper, who is scratched for the final game.
The loss of Crosby, Canada’s all-time leading scorer in best-on-best Olympic competition, is a significant challenge. He has recorded two goals and six points throughout the tournament. The team will need to rely on its depth and remaining star power to overcome the absence of their captain.
Here’s a seem at Team Canada’s projected lines for the gold medal game:
Last look. 🇨🇦Trios et duos pour ce dernier affrontement. 🇨🇦#MilanoCortina2026 pic.twitter.com/YsWWOYBQko
— Hockey Canada (@HockeyCanada) February 22, 2026
USA-Canada Rivalry Heats Up
The gold medal game sets the stage for a highly anticipated clash between Canada and the United States, two hockey powerhouses with a long-standing rivalry. The United States enters the game with momentum, having secured a 1-0 lead in the second period as of 9:11 AM EST, according to CTV News. The game promises to be a physical and emotionally charged contest, with both teams vying for Olympic glory.
As NBC Olympics reports, Crosby was injured after a hit from Czech defenceman Radko Gudas.
The absence of Crosby adds another layer of intrigue to an already compelling matchup. Canada will need a collective effort to overcome this adversity and secure the gold medal. The game is scheduled to continue, with the United States currently leading 1-0.
What comes next is a battle for Olympic supremacy. All eyes will be on the ice as Canada and the United States fight for the gold. Share your thoughts on the game and Canada’s chances without Crosby in the comments below.
