Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby scored his 600th career NHL goal on November 23, 2024, making history as he became the 21st player ever to reach this remarkable milestone. The momentous goal was scored during the second period of a game against the Utah Hockey Club, amid what turned out to be a disappointing 6-1 loss for the Penguins. This goal, achieved during a 5-on-3 power play, not only highlights Crosby's enduring talent and resilience but also solidifies his place among the elite scorers of the game.
Crosby netted the goal at 3:11 of the second period, finishing off a power-play opportunity with a one-timer from the right side of the net, expertly set up by teammate Erik Karlsson. After scoring, he raised his stick to acknowledge the overwhelming support of the fans, who honored him with a standing ovation. Together with his teammate's assist, this moment marked Crosby's first career goal against the Utah Hockey Club.
The 37-year-old star has had quite the career, joining Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin as the only active players to score at least 600 goals. Ovechkin, who hit the 600-goal mark back on March 12, 2018, currently sits at 868 goals, chasing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record. Crosby is also only the seventh player to score 600 goals wearing the same jersey, honoring his long-standing commitment to the Penguins franchise.
On reaching this milestone, Crosby reflected on the importance of this achievement, especially noting the special nature of doing it at home. “It means a lot, obviously,” he commented. “Being here for so long and having family here, it’s special.” His parents were both present and witnessed their son make history, along with the emotional tribute video played during the game, which included highlights of Crosby's illustrious career.
Despite this personal success, the night was bittersweet due to the Penguins' struggle early on, as the team faced its 14th loss out of 18 matches. After surging through the first half of the season, the Penguins began to falter and currently find themselves near the bottom of their division. Following his milestone goal, Crosby acknowledged the disappointment of the team’s performance, stating, “It was nice reception and cool moment, but it’s not enjoyable. It felt like we got momentum, but they got one shortly after and took the lead.”
Throughout his career, Crosby has built up not only personal accolades but has also contributed significantly to the Penguins' legacy, joining Mario Lemieux as the only two players to achieve 600 goals as members of the franchise. The Penguins now represent the second team in NHL history to have two players with 600 goals, sharing this honor with the storied Detroit Red Wings, which had Gordie Howe and Steve Yzerman.
Crosby has played 1,295 games for the Penguins, marking the most games played for any player within the franchise. After scoring his 600th goal, it seems he is eager to continue adding to his impressive total. Currently, he requires just five more goals to surpass Bobby Hull and take the sixth spot on the list for most goals scored with one team. If he nets two more, he'll kind of swoosh past Jari Kurri and find himself within the top 20 scorers of all time, according to the NHL.
The evening didn't just hold personal weight for Crosby but also for the long-standing tradition of excellence associated with the Penguins. The goal was indicative of the type of player he has consistently been: not just merely a scorer but rather one who leads by example and lightens the team's spirit.
Despite some struggles throughout the early part of the 2024-25 season, Crosby has proven to be resilient. After his sixth-game scoring drought, he returned with fervor, driving the Penguins forward during previous games with notable performances, including key moments against teams like the Anaheim Ducks and the Montreal Canadiens.
This season, Crosby also celebrated other milestones. Earlier, he notched his 1,600th career point against the Buffalo Sabres, adding another accolade to his legendary status among the hockey elite.
The Penguins' captain has certainly shared the highs and lows throughout his time with the franchise, bringing forth characteristics such as dedication, leadership, and high-caliber skillset to the ice, resulting in three Stanley Cup championships and two Conn Smythe trophies during his storied career.
Crosby's career, now spanning two decades, can be measured not just by points or goals, but by the imprints he has made, both on and off the ice. Being named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players, his impact transcends numbers. He has remained consistent, continuing to average over one point per game throughout his 19 seasons, tying him with Gretzky for the NHL record.
Team defenseman Kris Letang echoed the sentiment felt throughout the franchise, noting, “Every time you have a chance to be part of something like this, it’s special. It’s not something you’re going to see many times.” With milestones like these, the city of Pittsburgh continues to unite, celebrating Crosby's achievements as he guides the team through another challenging season.
Looking forward, Sidney Crosby is poised to keep writing his legacy, gaining recognition and respect within the sport, and continuing to inspire not just his teammates but also countless aspiring athletes who are captivated by his love and dedication to the game of hockey. Whether he breaks additional records or not, his place among the greats is, and always will be, firmly established.
