BUFFALO, N.Y. — The achievement was remarkable, but the game`s outcome was disappointing for Crosby.
Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby was visibly downcast after Thursday night`s game. Despite reaching a personal milestone—surpassing Wayne Gretzky for the most seasons averaging a point per game in NHL history—he was more focused on his team`s significant loss.
“It`s hard when you`re playing to win, even though this milestone is special,” Crosby said after the Penguins lost 7-3 to the Buffalo Sabres. This defeat further diminishes Pittsburgh`s playoff hopes for the third consecutive year.
“In a game like this, it just doesn`t feel the same. It was a tough night,” he added, expressing his disappointment.
With his parents watching from the stands in Buffalo, Crosby scored the Penguins` only goal, briefly narrowing the Sabres` lead to 2-1 in the first period. Rickard Rackell set up the play, and Crosby skillfully directed the puck with his skate to his stick before quickly shooting it into the net.
This was Crosby`s 26th goal and 80th point of the season, achieved in his 72nd game, despite missing two games due to injury. With eight games remaining in the season, Crosby is guaranteed to finish his 20th NHL season with an average of at least one point per game.
The Penguins` captain has now exceeded Gretzky`s record for consistency. Gretzky achieved point-per-game averages in all but his final NHL season in 1998-99.
“He’s an exceptional player and person,” teammate Bryan Rust commented. “Many players can perform well for a few years, but to maintain this level for so long is truly extraordinary.”
Coach Mike Sullivan emphasizes Crosby`s relentless competitive spirit as a key factor in his sustained success.
“I`ve often spoken about his deep passion for hockey and his dedication to continually improve. It’s truly remarkable,” Sullivan stated.
Since the 4 Nations tournament, Crosby has elevated his play, scoring nine goals and 22 points in his last 17 games, striving to lead the Penguins back into playoff contention.
“These kinds of situations really reveal character,” Sullivan noted. “And it highlights his leadership.”
Since Pittsburgh drafted Crosby first overall in 2005, he has led the team to three Stanley Cup titles. He has also been named NHL regular season MVP twice and has twice topped the league in points.
“You always need to improve and learn, even after many years. You must constantly adapt and evolve,” Crosby reflected on his consistency. “I’ve also been fortunate to play with incredible teammates throughout my 20 years, which has been a significant factor.”
Crosby`s milestone occurs as Washington`s Alex Ovechkin is nearing Wayne Gretzky`s all-time NHL record of 894 career goals, needing just five more to tie.
Crosby`s goal against Buffalo was not unexpected. He has consistently performed well against this non-divisional opponent, leading all active players with 86 points (30 goals, 56 assists) in 61 career games against the Sabres.
Despite the loss, a bright spot for Crosby was having his parents present to witness another memorable moment in his career. This career already includes scoring the decisive goal in overtime against the USA in the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, securing the gold medal for Canada.
“They`ve attended countless games over the years and have been incredibly supportive and made many sacrifices,” Crosby said about his parents. “Having them here for this occasion is truly special. It`s the least I could do.”
