Pittsburgh Penguins celebrate Sidney Crosby’s 39th birthday with tribute

By Liam Tremblay — 8 August 2026 — 3 min read

Crosby’s enduring impact and career longevity

Sidney Crosby, captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins, marked his 39th birthday on August 7. Known for his birthdate of 8/7/87, wearing jersey number 87, and an annual salary of $8.7 million, Crosby’s career continues to be a focal point in the hockey world. He is set to begin his 22nd NHL season, and while he typically does not focus on milestones, there is speculation he might aim to play for 25 seasons if his health permits. Such a feat could see him reach the 2,000-point plateau and potentially around 750 goals.

Crosby’s contributions extend beyond his on-ice performance. His character, marked by kindness, generosity, and a down-to-earth demeanor, is often highlighted as exceeding his athletic impact. Former Penguins assistant coach Rick Tocchet, now coaching the Philadelphia Flyers, once described Crosby as the “perfect hockey player” and potentially the “perfect person.”

In discussions about hockey history, Crosby is frequently ranked among the sport’s top players. Some consider him among the top five all-time, often placed just outside the “holy trinity” of Bobby Orr, Wayne Gretzky, and Mario Lemieux. His ability, impact, longevity, and international achievements are often cited as reasons for his high regard.

Chasing NHL scoring records

Entering his 39th year, Crosby is within reach of another significant NHL scoring record. Last season, he recorded 29 goals, 45 assists, and 74 points in 68 games, maintaining a 1.09 points-per-game pace. This performance extended his NHL record to 21 consecutive seasons averaging at least one point. If he were to maintain this pace over the league’s new 84-game schedule, he could achieve approximately 91 points.

This projection would surpass the current record for points by a 39-year-old player, which is held by Gordie Howe, who recorded 82 points in the 1967-68 season. Other notable performances by 39-year-olds include Johnny Bucyk with 81 points, Adam Oates with 78 points, Ray Whitney with 77 points, and Jean Béliveau with 76 points.

Crosby needs 83 points to exceed Howe’s record. His production rate from last season suggests he could reach this total in approximately 77 games. However, his availability is crucial, as he missed 14 games last season. Maintaining his current level of production while playing enough games will be key to achieving this milestone.

The success of other older players, such as Bucyk, who benefited from strong offensive support, suggests that the Penguins’ roster will play a role in Crosby’s continued productivity. While Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell are considered reliable linemates, the team’s offense still heavily relies on Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Reducing Crosby’s workload without diminishing his scoring opportunities could help him remain effective throughout the longer schedule.

Legacy in Pittsburgh sports

Crosby is poised to become the longest-tenured athlete in Pittsburgh sports history. His place among Pittsburgh’s greatest athletes is frequently debated, often alongside figures like Mario Lemieux and Roberto Clemente. Lemieux is widely considered the greatest athlete in Pittsburgh sports history, having overcome significant challenges during his career and later saving the Penguins franchise.

Clemente, known for his transcendent performance in the 1971 World Series and his humanitarian efforts, is also highly regarded. While Clemente was never considered the greatest player in baseball, Crosby was hockey’s undisputed greatest player for a decade. Crosby’s warmth and decency are noted as qualities that resonate within the sports community.

The city of Pittsburgh has been fortunate to have athletes like Clemente and Lemieux within a 30-year span, and Crosby represents a third individual bringing similar greatness as both a player and a person. Crosby has already won the Stanley Cup three times and is recognized as the most accomplished player in Penguins history. His continued pursuit of individual records is seen as a product of team success rather than a standalone objective, with a deep postseason run holding significant value.

Player	Seasons
Sidney Crosby	22
Willie Stargell	21
Evgeni Malkin	21
Kris Letang	21
Roberto Clemente	18
Honus Wagner	18
Ben Roethlisberger	18
Babe Adams	18
Mario Lemieux	17
Bill Mazeroski	17
Lloyd Waner	17
Pie Traynor	17
Max Carey	17

The NHL season is set to begin on September 30, 2026.

Source: nytimes.com