Crosby Injured in Team Canada's Olympic Quarterfinal

Penguins captain leaves game with right leg injury, status update expected Thursday

Feb. 23, 2026 at 10:23pm

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Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby exited Canada's quarterfinal matchup against Czechia at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina early due to a right leg injury. Crosby was in visible pain on the bench and went to the locker room for further evaluation. An update on his status is expected on Thursday.

Why it matters

Crosby is a legendary player for Team Canada, having won two Olympic gold medals. His injury is a major concern as Canada looks to win gold again in Milano Cortina. Players like Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon will need to step up if Crosby is unable to continue.

The details

Crosby was injured after a collision with Czechia defenseman Radko Gudas, where Gudas landed on top of Crosby and Crosby's right leg appeared to bend awkwardly. Crosby was in visible pain on the bench and went down the tunnel to the locker room, keeping weight off his right leg. Canada went on to win the quarterfinal 4-3 in overtime, but Crosby's status for the semifinals is now in question.

  • Crosby was injured in the second period of Canada's quarterfinal matchup against Czechia on February 18, 2026.
  • An update on Crosby's status is expected on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Sidney Crosby

The captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins and a legendary player for Team Canada, having won two Olympic gold medals.

Radko Gudas

A defenseman for the Czechia national team who collided with Crosby, leading to Crosby's injury.

Connor McDavid

A star player for Team Canada who is expected to step up if Crosby is unable to continue.

Nathan MacKinnon

Another star player for Team Canada who is expected to take on a larger role if Crosby is out.

Macklin Celebrini

A young player for Team Canada who could see increased playing time if Crosby is unable to continue.

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What they’re saying

“You just rarely see it. For him, something definitely went wrong, but he just thought he wasn't in a position to help the team the rest of the night.”

— Jon Cooper, Team Canada coach

“Team Canada is expected to have an update on Sidney Crosby on Thursday.”

— Pierre LeBrun, NHL insider

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Crosby's injury is a major concern for Team Canada as they look to win gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics. His leadership and skill will be difficult to replace, and players like McDavid, MacKinnon, and Celebrini will need to step up if Crosby is unable to continue. The update on Thursday will be crucial in determining Canada's path forward.