When Michel Terrien made young Sidney Crosby captain on May 31st 2007. The news made the headlines of every sport section in newspapers across North America. At the age of 19 and 297 days he became the youngest captain in the history of the NHL. A title previously held by Vicent Lecavalier of the Tampba Bay Lightning who was named captain at 19 years and 324 days. Sidney Crosby and Vincent Lecavalier are very alike in several ways, both were hot shots in the minor leagues, both made spectacular debuts in the NHL, and both were made captain at the same age. In the case of Lecavalier despite a stellar performance, his captaincy was stripped away by John Tortorella after only a season. He was deemed not mature enough to lead the team. This of course raises the question of whether Michel Terrien made the right decision in naming Sidney Crosby captain at such a young age after only 2 seasons in the NHL?
The short answer is yes. Sidney Crosby certainly has shown tremendous signs of improvement since he first joined the elite ranks of the top hockey players in the world. He has constantly been in the game for every match, he has gained the trust of his teammates, his coach and more importantly the owner Mario Lemieux. After all what better mentor than one of the greatest captains the Pittsburgh Penguins organisation has ever known?
All of this is not to say that Crosby is entirely fit to wear the C on his jersey. A captain needs to demonstrate a sense of leadership, and share his experience and knowledge of the game with his teammates. Something Sidney Crosby may not be most apt to do.
Sidney Crosby may go down in history as the greatest captain the Pittsburgh Penguins, but for now this young superstar still needs to learn the ropes. The playoffs will be a true test of his capacities as captain.
Phil is the owner of the Sidney Crosby Fan site http://www.sidneycrosbyfansite.com
Source: www.articlecity.com
