Pittsburgh Review

PITTSBURGH — Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby, two of hockey's most celebrated players, are set to fulfill a long-standing dream of playing together for Team Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off. The event, scheduled from February 12-20, will see McDavid and Crosby don the Canadian colors in a tournament that also features teams from the United States, Sweden, and Finland.

McDavid, who recently turned 28, expressed his excitement about teaming up with Crosby. "I think there’s an old saying that you should never meet your idol because you’ll be disappointed," he said. "But that’s the furthest thing when it comes to Sid." He continued to share his enthusiasm about playing alongside Crosby on the ice.

Crosby reciprocated McDavid's sentiments. "Over the years, whether it’s playing against one another or skating at different camps... I’ve gotten to know him," Crosby stated. "He’s a great role model and, obviously, an unbelievable player."

Their relationship dates back to 2013 when McDavid was a young player in the Ontario Hockey League and met Crosby after attending a Pittsburgh Penguins game. Reflecting on that meeting, McDavid recalled being in awe of both Mario Lemieux and Crosby.

Rick Tocchet, Vancouver Canucks coach and former assistant coach for the Penguins, highlighted what this collaboration means for both players. Drawing parallels with legendary players Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux during the 1987 Canada Cup, Tocchet noted how special it is for generational talents like Crosby and McDavid to join forces.

In other news related to the upcoming tournament rosters announced on December 4th, Carolina Hurricanes forward Seth Jarvis' selection sparked debate due to other high-performing candidates like Mark Scheifele and Connor Bedard being left out. Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour defended Jarvis’ inclusion by emphasizing his versatility on ice.

As anticipation builds for the 4 Nations Face-Off, fans eagerly await seeing these hockey stars compete together on an international stage.