Canada Uncertain on Crosby's Status for Gold Medal Game

Penguins captain injured in quarterfinals, Morrissey ruled out for finals

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Canada's men's hockey team is facing uncertainty around the status of star center Sidney Crosby ahead of the gold medal game against the United States at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Crosby was injured in the quarterfinal game against Czechia and missed the semifinal against Finland, while defenseman Josh Morrissey has been ruled out of the finals. Canada is keeping Crosby's status close to the vest, but head coach Jon Cooper left the door open for a possible return, though he may not see full ice time if he does play.

Why it matters

Crosby's health is crucial for Canada's chances of winning gold, as he is the team's captain and one of the best players in the world. His absence would be a major blow, but Canada is also dealing with the loss of Morrissey, another key player. This adds drama and uncertainty to the highly anticipated gold medal matchup between the longtime hockey rivals.

The details

Crosby was injured during the quarterfinal game against Czechia and was forced to miss the semifinal against Finland. Canada has already ruled out Morrissey for the gold medal game due to injury. Crosby skated during a closed practice session, and Cooper left the door open for a possible return, but said Crosby won't put himself or the team at risk if he's not 100% healthy.

  • Crosby was injured during the quarterfinal game against Czechia.
  • Crosby missed the semifinal game against Finland.
  • Crosby skated during a closed practice session ahead of the gold medal game.

The players

Sidney Crosby

The captain of the Canadian men's hockey team and a star center for the Pittsburgh Penguins in the NHL.

Josh Morrissey

A defenseman for the Canadian men's hockey team and the Winnipeg Jets in the NHL.

Jon Cooper

The head coach of the Canadian men's hockey team.

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What they’re saying

“We'll see. I watched him skate today. I haven't spoken to him yet. We're going to meet tonight and have a determination of what's going to happen tomorrow. He won't put himself in harm's way. He's not going to put the team in harm's way.”

— Jon Cooper, Head Coach, Canadian Men's Hockey Team (The Athletic)

“Yeah, that's a tough one. This is twice in a year now that we've had the same conversation, and I feel for him because he's just an all-world kid and a hell of a hockey player.”

— Jon Cooper, Head Coach, Canadian Men's Hockey Team (Breakaway On SI)

What’s next

The Canadian team will meet with Crosby on the night before the gold medal game to determine his status for the contest.

The takeaway

Crosby's health will be the key factor in determining Canada's chances of winning gold against their longtime rivals, the United States. His absence would be a major blow, but Canada is also dealing with the loss of another key player in Morrissey, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the highly anticipated matchup.