Hockey fans across Canada have a big reason to cheer. Two of the country’s biggest stars, Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon, will be suiting up for Team Canada at the 2025 IIHF World Championship. After much speculation, both Nova Scotian players are confirmed to play, adding elite talent and leadership to the national squad.
Crosby Confirms His Return to International Hockey
Sidney Crosby will join Team Canada for the World Championship, marking his first appearance in the tournament since 2015. The Pittsburgh Penguins missed the NHL playoffs, giving Crosby the opportunity to participate. After the season ended, Crosby hinted that he might play but wasn’t sure. On Sunday, he confirmed he was ready.
Crosby said he wanted to see how he felt physically before committing. “It’s almost better when you keep going,” he mentioned, suggesting staying active helps him stay in game shape.
Crosby has already made a major mark at past World Championships. His last appearance in 2015 saw him lead Canada to gold while serving as team captain. In that tournament, he scored four goals and added 11 points in just nine games. His first experience at the Worlds was in 2006, when he led the entire tournament in scoring with eight goals and 16 points — at just 18 years old.
MacKinnon Joins After Colorado’s Early Exit
Nathan MacKinnon was not part of Hockey Canada’s first 15-player list, mainly because his team, the Colorado Avalanche, was still in the playoffs. However, after the Avalanche were knocked out in Game 7 by the Dallas Stars, MacKinnon became eligible. Now, he’s expected to join the team alongside Crosby.
MacKinnon has played in three World Championships before — in 2014, 2015, and 2017. His best run was in 2017 when he racked up six goals and 15 points in 10 games. Like Crosby, MacKinnon last played for Canada earlier this year in the 4 Nations Face-Off, where both were key in Canada’s win over Team USA.
In that tournament, Crosby picked up five points in four games, while MacKinnon scored four goals, showing they still have plenty to give on the international stage.
Youth Meets Experience on Team Canada
The addition of Crosby and MacKinnon gives Canada a strong leadership core. They’ll be joining a mix of young talent and seasoned veterans. One exciting young player on the roster is Macklin Celebrini, a rising star from the San Jose Sharks, who is hoping to win his first major trophy.
Canada already started their tournament preparations with a 5-1 win in an exhibition game against Austria. The 2025 IIHF World Championship officially begins on May 9, and Canada’s first game is set for May 10 against Slovenia.
A Chance to Add to Legendary Careers
Both Crosby and MacKinnon have long been considered among the best in the NHL. For Crosby, this is a chance to add to an already legendary resume that includes a Stanley Cup, an Olympic gold medal, and a World Championship title — making him a member of the prestigious triple gold club.
MacKinnon, though highly decorated in the NHL, has yet to complete that trifecta. A World Championship gold would bring him one step closer to joining that elite group.
The return of Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon to Team Canada has boosted the country’s chances at the 2025 IIHF World Championship. With their experience, skill, and leadership, they’re expected to guide the younger players and strengthen Canada’s push for gold. Fans will be eagerly watching as Canada kicks off their campaign on May 10.
