Pittsburgh Penguins head coach Dan Muse had to be informed that his captain and star player, Sidney Crosby, left Team Canada’s quarterfinal win over Czechia on Wednesday.
As NHL players not participating in the Olympics returned to practice, Canada was playing its quarterfinal game on Wednesday against Czechia. Midway through the second period, Crosby, who’s Pittsburgh and Canada’s captain, got injured and left the game and did not return, which was disappointing news for Muse.
“I heard he left the game, so I have no information,” Muse said on Wednesday after practice. “Thinking of him, but I have nothing. No information.”
Although Crosby got injured, that doesn’t change Muse’s viewpoint that NHL players should be participating in the Olympics.
Muse knows that there is a risk that players could get hurt, but he believes the risk is well worth the reward for the players to represent their countries.
Story continues below advertisement
“It’s the Olympics,” Muse said. “Any time these get an opportunity to represent their countries, I’m just happy for them. To play in a tournament like that, to be playing in that setting, it’s something everybody dreams of.
“The only thing for me is I’m excited for these guys getting the opportunity they’ve earned. Excited for them to be over there. No thoughts in my mind other than that.”
Crosby has two goals and four assists for six points in four games at the Olympics for Canada.
Story continues below advertisement
Although his loss is a big one for Canada, depending on the injury, it could be a big blow to the Penguins that are looking to compete for a playoff spot.
More Penguins: When Is Penguins’ Next Game? Date, Time, How To Watch Pittsburgh’s Return After Olympic Break