Sidney Crosby just completed his 21st NHL season, producing 74 points in 68 games, and Wayne Gretzky believes he belongs in the same conversation as Tom Brady and LeBron James.
What drives Sidney Crosby's longevity?
Gretzky praised Crosby's ability to remain elite, carrying the Pittsburgh Penguins and Team Canada on the biggest stages.
He's our Tom Brady, our LeBron James, a guy that can still bring it at an older age, Gretzky said.
How does Sidney Crosby impact the Penguins?
Crosby continues to dictate structure, pace, and accountability inside Pittsburgh's locker room, elevating the roster around him.
The Penguins still rely heavily on Crosby in every situation, as their top matchup center, first power-play option, and emotional leader.
And he added five points in six postseason games despite the Penguins falling to the Philadelphia Flyers in the first round.
What's next for Sidney Crosby?
Gretzky shared a story from Crosby's teenage years, highlighting his obvious talent, and noted that Crosby's career arc remains remarkable.
Crosby showed he can still control games through positioning, puck protection, and elite hockey IQ, rather than pure speed, at the IIHF World Championship.
So far, he has five points in the tournament, including a four-assist game against Denmark.
But Gretzky's comments came while discussing Crosby's desire to keep playing as long as possible.
You play as long as you want to make them tear that jersey off you, Gretzky said.