What Makes Sidney Crosby so Good?

What Makes Sidney Crosby So Good?

December 6th, 2010 7:43am | Spanky | Category: Penguins

The Penguins are in the midst of a ridiculous 11-0-1 stretch which has lifted them into a tie with the Washington Capitals for the top spot in the Eastern Conference, but just how did they go from a sub .500 record to a beast in the east so quickly? Actually, there are plenty of reasons for the drastic turnaround, but at the top of the list  is one of Pittsburgh’s most recognized faces, Sidney Crosby.

Crosby has been absolutely sensational  during this point streak. He has points in each of his last 15 games and has amassed 17 goals and 13 assists in that stretch. He is up to 23 goals and 23 assists in 28 games this season. Ridiculous numbers to say the least.

But what is it that makes him so good?

He doesn’t have that laser of a shot  that fits the mold of a pure scorer like Ovechkin and Stamkos, yet he leads the league in goals. He lacks over all size to scrap in front of the net, yet several of his recent goals have been courtesy of deflections (two of which were filthy). It just doesn’t make sense that he finds the net with such regularity. Or does it?

There is more to putting the puck in the net than having a cannon of a shot. Crosby has proved that, as he continues to find creative ways to beat goalies. Whether he finds the five hole on a break away, jams in a rebound, or snaps a wrist shot over the glove hand, at this point everyone on that team knows that somehow he’s going to come up with a goal. It’s honestly teetering on the edge of ridiculous. And it all stems from his desire to compete and be the best.

Sid has been praised by his teammates for so many things since his arrival, but a common theme has risen in the locker room as most everyone appreciates his work ethic above all else. He’s frequently the last guy on the ice putting in the extra reps to improve on his “weaknesses”. He’s always shown that he possesses the vision necessary to be a play maker in the NHL, but its that desire to compete which really has pushed him over the edge towards greatness.

The best part about Crosby’s current stretch may be his attitude. His confident yet humble approach seems to be contagious as everyone on the team seems to be elevating their game to a higher level.

It’s really been a pleasure to watch the transformation over the last few weeks, and while the wins have come from great team efforts, it’s been the man wearing the C on his sweater who keeps the fans in awe.