BUFFALO, N.Y. — While the personal achievement was significant, the team`s defeat overshadowed the moment for Sidney Crosby.
The Pittsburgh Penguins` captain, Sidney Crosby, expressed more concern about his team`s recent significant loss than celebrating his new NHL record. He now stands alone, surpassing Wayne Gretzky in seasons with a point-per-game average.
“It’s challenging when the focus is on winning, and this milestone is special,” Crosby commented after a 7-3 loss to the Buffalo Sabres. This loss further diminishes the Penguins` playoff chances for the third consecutive year.
“However, in a game like tonight, it feels different. It was a tough night overall,” he added.
Despite the team`s struggles, Crosby delivered a highlight for Pittsburgh. He scored in the first period, narrowing Buffalo`s lead to 2-1. Assisted by Rickard Rackell, Crosby skillfully directed the puck with his skate to his stick and quickly shot it into the net.
This goal marked his 26th of the season and his 80th point in 72 games, having missed two games due to injury. With eight games remaining, Crosby is guaranteed to maintain a point-per-game average for his 20th NHL season.
Crosby has now exceeded Gretzky`s record for most point-per-game seasons. Gretzky achieved this feat in all but his final NHL season in 1998-99.
Teammate Bryan Rust emphasized Crosby`s exceptional career length: “He is an incredible player and person. Many can perform well for a few years, but to sustain this level for so long is truly remarkable.”
Coach Mike Sullivan highlighted Crosby`s relentless competitiveness as a key factor in his sustained success.
“His passion for hockey and his dedication to continuous improvement are truly remarkable,” Sullivan stated.
Crosby`s performance has intensified recently, especially since the 4 Nations tournament. He has scored nine goals and accumulated 22 points in his last 17 games, aiming to propel the Penguins back into playoff contention.
“Situations like these reveal a lot about a person`s character,” Sullivan noted. “His current efforts perfectly demonstrate his leadership.”
Since joining Pittsburgh as the first overall pick in the 2005 draft, Crosby has led the team to three Stanley Cup titles. He has also been recognized as the NHL regular season MVP twice and has twice topped the league in points.
Reflecting on his consistency, Crosby remarked, “You must constantly improve and learn, even after many years. You have to adapt and evolve. I`ve also been fortunate to play alongside fantastic players throughout my 20 years, which is a significant factor.”
Crosby’s milestone occurs while Alex Ovechkin of Washington is nearing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goal record, needing just five more goals to break it.
Crosby’s scoring performance against Buffalo is consistent with his career trend. He leads all active players in points against the Sabres, with 86 points in 61 games.
Despite the defeat, a personal highlight for Crosby was having his parents present to witness his achievement. They have been a constant support throughout his career, including his gold-medal winning goal at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.
“They have attended countless games and have been incredibly supportive,” Crosby said. “Having them here for this moment is truly special, and it’s the least I could do to acknowledge their support.”
