NHL: Crosby head backs to work with next Cup on his mind
PITTSBURGH— Sidney Crosby’s minivacation after the latest triumph in his remarkable career lasted all of four days.
Crosby was skating in line rushes with the rest of his Pittsburgh Penguins teammates Tuesday, just five days removed from leading Canada to the World Cup of Hockey title as the tournament’s MVP.
And no, Crosby wasn’t about to complain about being tired. That’s simply not his way.
“When you’re playing a lot of hockey it’s more comfortable,” Crosby said. “You just have to balance rest and recovery and making sure you’re ready to play.”
Crosby certainly looked ready while piling up 10 points during Canada’s clinical domination of the eight-team tournament that featured the world’s best players. He was a unanimous selection as tournament MVP just a few months removed from being named the Conn Smythe Trophy winner after guiding the Penguins to their fourth championship.
Crosby is well aware of the challenge that awaits the Penguins after they visit the White House on Thursday.
“There’s a reason why (a repeat) hasn’t been done for a long time,” Crosby said.
“Everyone wants to beat you. Everyone wants to measure themselves against you.”
Jackman leaves as a Blue: Defenceman Barret Jackman retired Tuesday after signing a one-day contract with the St. Louis Blues.
St. Louis drafted the Trail, B.C., native 17th overall in 1999. The sixfoot, 203-pound rearguard won the Calder Trophy as NHL rookie of the year in 2003 and went on to play 803 games over 13 seasons with the Blues, accumulating 28 goals, 153 assists, 1,026 penalty minutes and a plus-53 rating.
Jackman played his final season in 2015-16 with Nashville.
Monahan could play Thursday:
Calgary Flames centre Sean Monahan participated in his first fullcontact practice of training camp Tuesday, after a back strain sidelined him from the World Cup. He could play as early as Thursday’s preseason game in Vancouver against the Canucks.
“Just to get on the ice with the guys feels good,” Monahan said following practice.
“It’s what you work for all summer. I’m happy to be out there and feel the way I feel today.”
Calgary signed Monahan to a seven-year extension worth a reported $44.6 million (U.S.) in the off-season.