He may be 38 when by 2026, but the Pittsburgh Penguins captain should be a no-doubter to represent Team Canada.

PITTSBURGH – It was recently announced that the NHL will see their top players represent their countries at the next two Olympics in 2026 and 2030. Excitement has already reached new heights for international hockey, but Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby said that’s a spot even he must earn.

At the age of 36, Crosby is giving the Penguins everything he can with 50 points heading into the NHL All-Star break. When the Olympics kick off in 2026, Crosby will be 38 and his skill might be seeing a dip by then.

There is still belief, however, that no matter what the skillset or production look like, Crosby is a lock to make Team Canada in 2026. TSN analyst Jamie McLennan said that Canada is a clear favorite and Crosby is no doubt making the team.

“He’s a lock for me because he doesn’t have to play center ice,” McLennan said. “You can push him to the wing. You can push him down the lineup. He will be a versatile player.”

In 2026, Team Canada very well have a lineup that features Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, and Connor McDavid. Countries across the world have seen their international hockey skill improve, but Canada would likely still be a favorite.

Crosby is excited for the opportunity and said even he would have to earn a role on that team.

“Regardless of how old you are, I think you always go a year at a time and then see how it goes and where your game’s at,” Crosby said. “I'd love to be a part of it. It’s something you have to earn, though. It’s not something that's given to you.”

Crosby has represented Canada ins two Olympic Games in 2010 and 2014 winning gold both times. In 2014 he was Canada’s captain and in 2010 he was the nation’s hero with his “Golden Goal” an overtime game winner against the United States.

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