In the latest ESPN article ranking the top 100 athletes of the 21st century, a wide array of sports were represented. From baseball to football, basketball to hockey, tennis to soccer, and more – this list spanned over two decades of sporting excellence. Hockey, however, seemed to be shortchanged once again with only three players making the cut, namely Sidney Crosby (22nd), Alex Ovechkin (54th), and Connor McDavid (98th). Many argue that stars like Nathan MacKinnon, Patrick Kane, and Martin Brodeur deserved a spot on that prestigious list as well.
Basketball dominated the list with 24 players, a notable seven more than baseball which came in second. The glaring omission of hockey players left fans of the sport scratching their heads.
One of the brightest stars in the game, Sidney Crosby, continues to make waves even in his 20th season in the league. His recent milestone of 1,000 career assists solidified his position as one of the greatest players of all time. Crosby’s exceptional play extends beyond just scoring points – he is poised to break the all-time record for faceoffs won, currently trailing Patrice Bergeron by a mere 189 faceoffs.
Crosby’s impact goes beyond stats and records. His ability to predict crucial moments in games, as seen in a Stanley Cup final against the San Jose Sharks, has left his teammates in awe. Kris Letang, a former teammate, recalls Crosby’s uncanny ability to foresee key plays that led to victory.
Moreover, Crosby’s leadership extends to mentoring younger players and boosting their confidence. Conor Sheary, a former linemate, remembers Crosby’s words of encouragement that stayed with him throughout his career.
As the NHL continues to evolve in the 21st century, Sidney Crosby’s legacy remains unmatched. His inclusion as the top NHL player in ESPN’s top-100 list only solidifies his status as a true hockey icon. The world of sports can only watch in awe as Crosby continues to rewrite the record books and inspire generations to come.
