At 37, Crosby is still one of the best players in the NHL with 51 points already in the season, which ranks him 20th in the league ČTK / AP / Jayne Kamin-Oncea
By Zdeněk Matějovský – Flashscore
You don’t seem to be slowing down even at almost 40. What’s your recipe for longevity?
“Good question… I don’t feel like I’m slowing down. I think it’s about always having some passion in you. I’ve been part of a good team and a great organization for a really long time.
“So the main thing is that you have to love what you do. And I do. I still love hockey as much as I did in my first season.”
Do you have any regular rituals?
Jesus! How much time do you have? (laughs) I have a lot! Over the years, you develop your routine, how you want to prepare. Something that gets you ready for games, for training and for the season in general.
“It takes a lot of work off the ice as well. And a lot of your confidence comes from all that work.”
You overcame a concussion, you’re back in great shape and health. What do you have to do to get to that level consistently?
“As I get older, I try to get to know my body as much as possible. It’s also important to schedule my rest. I’m always trying to work on getting better, stronger, faster…
“And that’s more of a challenge when you’re 37. You have to find a balance, that’s the most important thing.”
You’re in the top 10 of the NHL’s historical scoring chart. Joe Sakic is right behind you and you’re looking up at Mario Lemieux. What does that mean for you?
“To be a part of this company is special. I watched all the players you mentioned when I was a kid. My dream has always been to play in the NHL. I didn’t even envision myself in any rankings.
“The main thing was to get to the NHL and then win the Stanley Cup. I was able to do both, which is what keeps me motivated.”
Congrats Sid!!! Crosby passes Joe Sakic for 9th all-time in points in NHL history!! 🥹💛👏🐐 https://t.co/i0Tp0O3shQ
— ameena (@Canuckgirl20) January 10, 2025
Pittsburgh have been a long way from the Stanley Cup in recent years. Your contract was expiring. Have you considered changing clubs?
“I try not to think about any of that. We have a great group here. It hasn’t been easy for us at certain times, but we all believe in each other here. We’re strong and in an atmosphere like this, it makes it easier to focus on our goal.
“There are a lot of teams pushing for the last one or two spots for the playoffs. With this great team, it’s a little easier to fight for it.”
But you’re not planning the retire yet, are you? Look at Jaromir Jagr. At 52 years old, he’s still on the ice…
“I don’t really know how he does it. He’s an exceptional person, an exceptional athlete. We talked about passion, and his passion is huge… It’s hard to explain.
“I can’t imagine playing as long as he did. (laughs) He’s definitely a personality to look up to. He’s a great example for longevity and for keeping yourself at a high level.”
Click here to watch a video of the interview.
I’ve never commented on a blog post before, but I couldn’t resist after reading yours. It was just too good not to!
Thanks for the kind words we try to do our best
Your blog post was like a crash course in [topic]. I feel like I learned more in five minutes than I have in months of studying.
Your blog post was the perfect blend of informative and entertaining. I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the screen!