Sidney Crosby injury forces emotional gold medal decision for Canada

Feb 22, 2026 (7:59)

Photo credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Sidney Crosby will not play in the gold medal game, and Team Canada loses its heartbeat on the biggest night.

The decision landed Sunday, just hours before puck drop, and it changes the emotional tone of Canada vs USA instantly.

Elliotte Friedman first reported the news.

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Crosby had been battling an injury suffered earlier in the tournament, and there was genuine hope he could suit up.

That hope faded when he realized he could not be the difference Canada needed.

Friedman added critical context that makes this sting even more.

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They tried everything to get him ready, and there was optimism Saturday that he might go.

In the end, Crosby felt he could not be enough of a factor, and Canada needed all 13 forwards fully operational to win.

You can feel the frustration in the fan base, because Crosby is the player you trust when the gold is on the line.

This was not about toughness. It was about effectiveness.

Crosby refused to dress if he could not drive play at five on five or help tilt the man advantage.

That mindset defines him.

Now the spotlight swings to Connor McDavid and the rest of Canada’s elite core.

They must generate enough offense and protect the blue line without Crosby’s poise in tight moments.

The margins against the United States are razor thin.

Without Crosby’s calming presence and clutch reputation, every faceoff and late shift feels heavier.

If Canada finds a way, it becomes a story about depth and resolve.

If they fall short, this decision will linger as the ultimate what if, and fans will replay it all the way to the next best on best stage.

Previously on HockeyLatest

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