Canada Needs a New Captain: Crosby Injury Concerns

Sidney Crosby’s status for Team Canada’s Olympic semifinal against Finland on Friday remains uncertain after sustaining a lower-body injury during Wednesday’s 4-3 overtime victory over Czechia, officials confirmed Thursday.

The Canadian captain was injured in the second period of the quarterfinal match and did not return to the game. He also did not participate in Canada’s optional practice Thursday, according to reports. Team Canada coach Jon Cooper addressed the media Thursday, stating Crosby is “by no means ruled out of the tournament,” but acknowledged the situation is being evaluated “day by day.”

“We’ve got the best of the best looking at him,” Cooper said. “We’re taking this day by day. We’re not going to set anyone in harm’s way, but if he can play, he’s definitely going to. We’ll know more again in 24 hours.”

Crosby underwent imaging in Milan to determine the severity of the injury, sources reported. The injury occurred following a hit from Radko Gudas at 4:55 of the second period. Through four games at the Olympics, Crosby has registered six points, including two goals and four assists.

Should Crosby be unable to play against Finland, Team Canada will be required to designate a new captain for the semifinal match, as International Ice Hockey Federation rules mandate a captain be named for each game. Cooper declined to reveal who would assume the captaincy if Crosby is unavailable. “We’ll have to see if he’s ruled out and then People can answer that one,” he said.

The winner of Friday’s Canada-Finland semifinal will advance to the gold medal game on Sunday, whereas the losing team will compete for the bronze medal on Saturday. The semifinal game is scheduled for 10:40 a.m. ET and will be broadcast on Peacock in the United States, and on ICI Tele, CBC Gem, CBC, SN, and RDS2 in Canada.