Sidney Crosby addressed the media this Wednesday to explain to the hockey world the state of his recovery. What would normally be front and center was of course overshadowed by the tragedy that struck the KHL yesterday. It is extremely saddening to hear about the Lokomotiv hockey team. As far as Sid goes, his delayed return in my opinion is not sad at all.
In summary Crosby skated but is not cleared for contact. He was quoted as saying “the last three weeks have been really good. I feel myself getting better and better.” Good news but there is still no timetable for his return. Pittsburgh trainers are optimistic for a return this year but will not allow it until Crosby is fully recovered and back to normal.
Crosby will have a hard time getting back into the shape he was at last year before the concussion. He was on pace to reach 132 points had he played the full season. No player has broken 130 in a single year since Penguins stars Mario Lemieux and Jaromir Jagr did it centuries ago in the 95-96 season. It’s too bad for Crosby that he couldn’t complete the campaign. Sid’s best tally thus far was 120 points back in 06-07.
Patience is a virtue some say, and when you consider the risks that Crosby faces, it definitely is. I could care less if he starts the season, joins in after the all-star break, or misses the whole year. Why? Because I would rather watch him play for the next 15 years. It is good to see that the situation is being handled as carefully as possible. The face of the NHL will be sorely missed for now, but “for now” is better than forever.
