Elliotte Friedman reveals concerning new detail about Sidney Crosby’s injury situation
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Leo Honein
February 20, 2026 (11:25)
Photo credit: Screenshot
We are learning more about the reasons that led to Sidney Crosby’s official withdrawal for the semifinal against Finland.
Insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that Team Canada and the player’s camp literally tried everything to allow him to take part in the game.
According to his information, the medical staff even attempted to design a custom brace to protect the Canadian captain’s knee.
On Crosby: “heard Team Canada and everyone around him did everything humanly possible for him to play — including searching for/putting together a custom brace.”
– Friedman
However, as journalist Karine Hains reports, that specialized equipment option ultimately could not be completed in time for the game.
It really doesn’t look good at all for Sidney Crosby
The fact that a personalized knee brace was required just to consider a return to play indicates the potentially serious nature of the injury.
Karine Hains also rightly points out that these recent developments are truly not reassuring news for the Pittsburgh Penguins organization.
“Friedman reporting Canada tried to have a special knee brace made for Crosby to be able to play, but it just couldn’t be done. This is not good news for the Pittsburgh Penguins.”
– Karine Hains
The Pennsylvania-based team will certainly be monitoring this situation very closely, as the health of its franchise player will have a direct impact on the remainder of its regular season.
For now, Team Canada must move forward without its veteran, handing leadership duties to Connor McDavid and additional ice time to players like Nick Suzuki at center.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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Elliotte Friedman reveals concerning new detail about Sidney Crosby’s injury situation
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