Coach Jon Cooper gives troubling update on Sidney Crosby injury

The concern surrounding Sidney Crosby grew significantly on Wednesday after Team Canada head coach Jon Cooper delivered what many are calling a troubling update on the captain’s status. Crosby exited Canada’s semifinal matchup after an awkward collision along the boards late in the second period. The veteran forward immediately grabbed at his upper body and skated gingerly to the bench before heading down the tunnel with medical staff. He did not return.

After the game, Cooper’s tone did little to calm nerves. “Sid’s being evaluated right now,” Cooper said. “It’s more than just something minor. We’ll know more after further testing, but it’s not something we’re taking lightly.” Those words sent shockwaves through the Canadian fanbase and locker room alike.

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A Devastating Potential Blow

Feb 18, 2026; Milan, Italy; Sidney Crosby of Canada walks out to the ice before a men’s ice hockey quarterfinal during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Crosby has been the emotional and strategic heartbeat of this Canadian squad. Through the tournament, he’s centered the top line, quarterbacked the power play, and provided the steady leadership that has defined his international career.

For a team built around depth and star power, losing Crosby would still be seismic. His ability to control pace, win key faceoffs, and settle the group in high-pressure moments can’t simply be replaced.

Teammates were visibly shaken following the game.

“We all know what he means to this team,” one player said. “When he goes down like that, it hits everyone.”

What It Means for the semi-finals

With the semi-final game looming, uncertainty now clouds Canada’s preparation. Cooper acknowledged that contingency plans are already being discussed.

“We prepare for everything,” he said. “But you don’t prepare to lose a player like Sidney.”

If Crosby is unable to suit up, Canada will likely reshuffle its top-six forwards and lean more heavily on its younger stars to fill the void. Still, leadership and playoff-caliber composure aren’t easily manufactured.

Waiting on Results

Feb 13, 2026; Milan, Italy; Sidney Crosby of Canada in action with Akira Schmid of Switzerland in men’s ice hockey group A play during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Medical imaging is expected to determine the severity of the injury, though no timeline has been announced. Given Crosby’s history of playing through pain, some remain cautiously optimistic. However, Cooper’s admission that the injury is “not minor” suggests Canada could be facing its biggest challenge of the tournament at the worst possible time.

For now, the hockey world waits — and hopes — that the face of Canadian hockey isn’t sidelined when the stakes are highest.

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