Sidney Crosby's leadership has inspired a new generation of NHL players, including the Edmonton Oilers' Ryan Shea.

What happened?

Shea, who signed a five-year, $20 million contract with the Oilers, has spoken highly of his time playing with Crosby, a future Hall of Famer. In an interview with NHL.com, Shea revealed that he received numerous messages and calls from fans mentioning the opportunity to play with Crosby and McDavid.

Why it matters for Sidney Crosby

Crosby's leadership and experience have been a significant factor in Shea's growth as a player. "You get Sid that has been around the game for so long and he's won (Stanley) Cups and done everything that you can do pretty much in the League, and being around him and learning from him and his leadership was incredible," Shea said.

What comes next?

Shea is excited to join the Oilers and play with McDavid, a player he considers the best in the league. "The guys in Edmonton, Connor, Leon (Draisaitl) and (Zach) Hyman have already texted me and welcomed me, so it's already starting, and you can see the kind of culture those guys have built there, and I'm just really excited for it," Shea said.

Shea's experience playing with Crosby has prepared him for the high level of competition in the NHL. "Being around him and learning from him and his leadership was incredible," Shea said.

Shea's signing with the Oilers is a significant move for the team, as they look to build a winning culture. With Crosby's leadership and McDavid's talent, the Oilers are poised to make a deep run in the playoffs.

Shea's growth as a player is a testament to the impact of Crosby's leadership. "You get Sid that has been around the game for so long and he's won (Stanley) Cups and done everything that you can do pretty much in the League," Shea said.

Shea's future with the Oilers is bright, and his experience playing with Crosby will undoubtedly help him succeed in the NHL.

Shea's background

Shea was selected by the Chicago Blackhawks in the fourth round of the 2015 NHL Draft. He spent four years developing at Northeastern University before adding three more seasons with the Texas Stars in the American Hockey League.

Shea earned an opportunity with the Penguins and moved between Pittsburgh and the Penguins' AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. By the following season, he had secured a regular spot on the NHL roster, appearing in 39 games and recording two goals and three assists for five points.

So far in the 150 career NHL games he's skated in, Shea has scored nine goals with 32 assists.