These matchups between Sidney Crosby and Patrice Bergeron are worth your attention
2023 Winter Classic: Savor these Bergeron vs. Crosby matchups Original publication: NBC Sports Boston
BOSTON — The Winter Classic is a spectacle, and this year’s event It will not be any different.
Fenway Parkooks absolutely tremendous He will be an excellent host for Monday’s star-studded game between two elite teams in the Boston Bruins or Pittsburgh Penguins.
Beyond the pomp and circumstance, the NHL’s marquee outdoor event There is an interesting story.
The Winter Classic could be the last time that the Bruins captain. Patrice Bergeron Captain Penguins Sidney Crosby Square off on a grand platform.
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Given the Penguins’ success over the past 15 years, it’s hard to believe that only one playoff series has seen them face off. Bergeron and the B’s beat the favored Penguins in the 2013 Eastern Conference Final It was a shocker.
Fans love this because it’s the reason why watch the 2023 Winter ClassicThese two players should be appreciated at all times, on television or in the park.
Mike Sullivan, Penguins head coach said Sunday that Crosby and Bergeron represent all that is great about hockey. They’re great people. They are great ambassadors for the sport. They are outstanding players. They have been so important contributors to their respective communities and organizations. I have never coached two players as good as these guys. They have exceptional character and combine it with their superior play. Although it was a privilege to coach them both, Sid is still my coach. These are two men I admire greatly.
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Bergeron, an 18 year-old rookie, was drafted into the league in 2003-04. His rise to prominence as a two-way player was swift. Fast forward nearly two decades, and Bergeron boasts a stellar resume, which includes a Stanley Cup title as well as five Frank J. Selke records among many other honors.
Bergeron still remains the best hockey two-way player, even in his 19th year. In 36 games, he has scored 30 points (15 goals and 15 assists) and is currently on pace for 20 goals or more for the 10th consecutive year. His defensive statistics are outstanding.
“He has been so consistent. He was 18 years old when he entered the league. After Sunday’s practice Crosby stated that Bergeron is one of many young men trying to learn the game defensively.
“He had such maturity in his game. It seemed to fit his personality. He is always ready to take the next step. He’s a great leader. When I was 17, I was his roommate at World Juniors. He had half a season in the NHL. He has been a great friend and I have had the opportunity to play with him at various points in my life. It’s always a challenge to play against him.
Crosby has competed against Bergeron but he has also played on numerous occasions with Team Canada. Both Crosby and Bergeron were part of Canada’s Olympic gold medal winning rosters in 2010, 2014, respectively. They were also the World Junior gold medal winners in 2005, on one of Canada’s most impressive WJC rosters. They are the two Canadian members of Triple Gold Club (Stanley Cup title and Olympic gold), which also includes World Championship gold, World Championship Gold, and World Championship Gold. They are also two active players who have at least 1,000 career points.
They embody everything great about hockey. They are good people. They are great ambassadors for the sport. They are great players.
Mike Sullivan, Penguins Head Coach, on Crosby and Bergeron
Crosby still ranks amongst the league’s best players in Year 18. With 43 points, Crosby is the Penguins’ top player with 19 goals and 24 assists across 36 games. Crosby’s impressive resume of three Stanley Cup titles, two Hart trophy trophies, and many other awards is unmatched.
Bergeron stated that Crosby and he have a wonderful relationship. “Lots respect for him, who he is as an individual first and foremost, and the player with all he has accomplished. Also, the way that he represented the league over the years and how we players have treated him is quite special.”
We’ll be seeing a few of these young stars on Monday at Fenway Park. The league is extremely fortunate to have such talented players. Two guys who were drafted in 2006 are the best players to have on the ice in high-pressure situations, if you were in Game 7.
It is amazing that Crosby & Bergeron remain elite players so far into their careers. Their on-ice ability is just one aspect of their legacy. They also set an example for future generations with their leadership, professionalism, impact and influence in the community.
Enjoy these Bergeron vs. Crosby matchups – who knows how many there are?