http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/penguins/
Friday, November 5, 2010
Sidney Crosby works the puck as Dallas Stars defenseman Stephane Robidas follows during the third period of an NHL hockey game Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2010, in Dallas. The Stars won 5-2. (AP)ANAHEIM — The Penguins would probably like to destroy all existing documentation of their performance against Dallas on Wednesday.
There was a diamond in the rough during that game, however, and it might just signify a turn in the Penguins' season.
When Sidney Crosby drops the gloves, all of North American hockey fans seem to notice. And make no mistake, all of his teammates appreciate Crosby's leadership.
Less than 24 hours after Crosby pummeled Minnesota defenseman Matt Niskanen, his teammates spoke of how defined their captain's role has become.
"He leads by example," Penguins forward Mike Comrie said. "When he does stuff like that, it shows what kind of a leader he is."
Crosby, who did not practice Thursday, characteristically downplayed the altercation with Niskanen. He was simply responding to Brenden Morrow's decision to instigate a fight with Kris Letang, who was playing with an injured hand.
"Like I said (Wednesday), I was obviously upset with what happened with (Letang)," Crosby said. "That's not something you plan. I'm not going to do it every game. It could be another two years before that happens."
But it did happen, offering further proof of how Crosby has evolved into a leader. Even the segment of NHL fans that believes fighting should be banned must admit that Crosby shows courage every time he fights.
He has five fighting majors in his career.
"A lot of things can go wrong in a fight," he said.
Crosby isn't paid $8.7 million per season to drop the gloves, but he is the captain, and the "C" on his chest brings great responsibility.
"Anytime you get guys doing stuff out of their comfort zone, it's good," Comrie said.
In the future, of course, the Penguins would prefer Crosby use his million-dollar hands to score goals, not knockouts.
Crosby said he was just taking a day off yesterday, though he had an ice pack on his hand in the penalty box following the fight Wednesday.
"You don't want to see him fighting too often," Comrie said. "You want to save that for the tough guys and let him score the goals. But it was nice to see."
Comrie is new to the Penguins and just learning about Crosby's desire to stick up for his teammates. Letang has seen it before and clearly appreciated the gesture.
"I have to say that it was great of him," Letang said. "He did it for me and for the team, too. He did it for every player on the bench."
Crosby's competitive streak is the stuff of legend. He is one of those people who can't stand losing, no matter what the activity. Thus, it probably isn't a surprise that he's fared well in his five career fights.
Crosby used his powerful legs to nearly wrestle Niskanen to the ice before unloading a barrage of right hands on the defenseman.
"He's just so strong," Comrie said.
Comrie was speaking of Crosby's physical prowess, but he might as well have been talking about his leadership.
The Penguins are dealing with serious issues, chief among them an unstable goaltending situation and a power play that hasn't scored in 18 days. At least the Penguins know their captain always has their back.
"We weren't playing well and he tried to spark us," Letang said. "It's a big thing."
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