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EXCLUSIVE: Sidney Crosby on his longevity, pre-game rituals & what the future holds

At 37, Crosby is still one of the best players in the NHL with 51 points already in the season, which ranks him 20th in the league
At 37, Crosby is still one of the best players in the NHL with 51 points already in the season, which ranks him 20th in the leagueČTK / AP / Jayne Kamin-Oncea
Canada's Sidney Crosby (37) has become one of the legends of the NHL across his 20 years of playing at the top level, especially since he has spent his entire career at the Pittsburgh Penguins.

However, Crosby's current contract expires after the ongoing season. The three-time Stanley Cup winner spoke exclusively with Flashscore about his future plans and much more.

You don't seem to be slowing down even at almost 40. What's your recipe for longevity?

"Good question... I don't feel like I'm slowing down. I think it's about always having some passion in you. I've been part of a good team and a great organization for a really long time.

"So the main thing is that you have to love what you do. And I do. I still love hockey as much as I did in my first season."

Video interview with Sidney Crosby

Interview with Sidney Crosby
Flashscore

Do you have any regular rituals?

"Jesus! How much time do you have? (laughs) I have a lot! Over the years, you develop your routine, how you want to prepare. Something that gets you ready for games, for training and for the season in general.

"It takes a lot of work off the ice as well. And a lot of your confidence comes from all that work."

You overcame a concussion, you're back in great shape and health. What do you have to do to get to that level consistently?

"As I get older, I try to get to know my body as much as possible. It's also important to schedule my rest. I'm always trying to work on getting better, stronger, faster...

"And that's more of a challenge when you're 37. You have to find a balance, that's the most important thing."

You're in the top 10 of the NHL's historical scoring chart. Joe Sakic is right behind you and you're looking up at Mario Lemieux. What does that mean for you? 

"To be a part of this company is special. I watched all the players you mentioned when I was a kid. My dream has always been to play in the NHL. I didn't even envision myself in any rankings.

"The main thing was to get to the NHL and then win the Stanley Cup. I was able to do both, which is what keeps me motivated."

Pittsburgh have been a long way from the Stanley Cup in recent years. Your contract was expiring. Have you considered changing clubs?

"I try not to think about any of that. We have a great group here. It hasn't been easy for us at certain times, but we all believe in each other here. We're strong and in an atmosphere like this, it makes it easier to focus on our goal.

"There are a lot of teams pushing for the last one or two spots for the playoffs. With this great team, it's a little easier to fight for it."

But you're not planning the retire yet, are you? Look at Jaromir Jagr. At 52 years old, he's still on the ice...

"I don't really know how he does it. He's an exceptional person, an exceptional athlete. We talked about passion, and his passion is huge... It's hard to explain.

"I can't imagine playing as long as he did. (laughs) He's definitely a personality to look up to. He's a great example for longevity and for keeping yourself at a high level."

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