contract extension for Sid the kid

I was surprised to hear of the 12 year 104.4 million deal between Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburg Penguins. Because of the obvious concussion problem. According to NBC sports, Pittsburg GM Ray Shero said that he believes “Sidney’s best days are ahead of him.” That is a high risk for a player with serious concussion problems.


I have no doubt if there is one player in the NHL that deserves a contract like this it is Crosby. Crosby is an unbelievable athlete and from the public persona we see of him a very well rounded down to earth guy. He is probably one of the best hockey players in the world. The great thing about Crosby is not only does he make high-light real shots and goals but he does all of the little things that will never make a highlight reel; the passes, the checks, the moves here and there, the fakes, skating just everything. When you watch him, you are watching a guy that knows he sport and makes all the right moves. He is not afraid to get physical which can scare you because of the history. Crosby no doubt deserves this contract and the Penguins are smart to try and lock this kid up for life.

However!

It is a risk considering the problems he has had with concussions. Crosby missed what seemed like half of two seasons ago and the majority of this past season because of concussions. It has been proven that each concussion is worse for you and your brain. With the past two concussions which started at the 2011 Winter Classic. At any point any NHL player could be seriously injured and have their careers ended even without concussions. The same could be said about all major sports. But because Crosby has a history of previous concussions he is more susceptible to future concussions.

I like Crosby and I would love to see him win the cup again, I hope he plays every year on the contract. As long as he does not beat the hawks in the finals!