In a remarkable display of skill and consistency, Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby has set a new NHL record by achieving his 20th consecutive season averaging at least a point per game. This historic milestone was reached during a game against the Buffalo Sabres on March 27, 2025, where Crosby netted his 26th goal of the season, surpassing the previous record held by Wayne Gretzky.
Crosby scored 8:49 into the first period, cutting the Sabres’ lead to 2-1 with a well-placed shot after receiving a pass from teammate Rickard Rakell. This goal not only marked his 80th point of the season but also solidified his place in NHL history, as he surpassed Gretzky’s record of 19 consecutive seasons averaging a point per game, a feat Gretzky accomplished from 1979-1998.
"It’s hard right now after a loss like that. I just think that there’s a lot of guys who’ve contributed to that so I’m thankful for the guys that I’ve played with that contributed to it," Crosby said post-game, reflecting on his achievement despite the Penguins suffering a 7-3 defeat. "It’s a special milestone but obviously [you] play to win.”
The 37-year-old superstar, who has spent his entire career with the Penguins since being selected first overall in the 2005 NHL Draft, has been a cornerstone of the franchise. With 1,676 career points, he ranks ninth in NHL history and is the highest-scoring active player. His scoring prowess has been a key factor in the Penguins’ success over the years, leading them to three Stanley Cup championships.
In addition to his point-per-game streak, Crosby’s 14th 80-point season puts him just three behind Gretzky for the all-time record of 17 such seasons. This season has been particularly challenging for Crosby, as he missed two games due to injury, limiting him to a maximum of 80 games this season. However, he has still managed to maintain an impressive scoring pace, leading the Penguins with 80 points (26 goals and 54 assists).
Despite the Penguins’ struggles this season, Crosby’s individual accomplishments keep piling up. Earlier this month, he reached the 1,050-assist milestone, moving him into the top ten on the NHL's all-time assists list, just ahead of Gordie Howe. Crosby’s consistency is a testament to his work ethic and passion for the game, qualities that have been praised by his coach, Mike Sullivan.
“I’m running out of words to try to describe Sid’s legacy that he’s built here,” Sullivan stated. “What I will say with respect to just his consistency of play, I think it directly correlates with his passion for the game, his drive to be the best and then his willingness to put the work in to do so.”
Crosby’s journey in the NHL has been nothing short of extraordinary. He burst onto the scene in his rookie year, recording 102 points in 81 games, which placed him sixth in the league and second among rookies. The following season, he helped the Penguins return to the playoffs, finishing first in points with 120 and second in assists with 84.
Throughout his career, Crosby has averaged over a point per game, with 1,454 points in 1,192 games over the last 18 seasons. He has registered four seasons with over 100 points, including back-to-back campaigns with 103 and 109 points in the 2008-09 and 2009-10 seasons respectively.
As the Penguins currently sit six points behind the Montreal Canadiens for the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, Crosby’s leadership and performance will be crucial in their final games of the season. The Penguins have eight games remaining, and Crosby is determined to continue his scoring streak and help his team make a push for the playoffs.
Despite the team’s challenges, Crosby remains focused on his game. He has been on a scoring tear since the 4 Nations Face-Off, leading the NHL in points during that span and ranking first in 5-on-5 scoring. His ability to perform at such a high level at age 37 is a testament to his dedication to the sport.
Looking back on his career, Crosby recognizes the support he has received from his family and teammates. “It’s nice to have different moments with them and I’ve been fortunate they’ve been [to] a lot of different games and memories and events and things like that,” he said, acknowledging his parents’ presence at the milestone game.
As Crosby continues to break records and add to his legacy, he remains a role model for aspiring players. His journey from a young prodigy to one of the greatest players in NHL history serves as an inspiration to many. With every game, he solidifies his status as a future Hall of Famer and a central figure in the history of the sport.
As the season winds down, all eyes will be on Crosby and the Penguins to see if they can turn their fortunes around and secure a playoff spot. With his relentless drive and unmatched skill, there’s no telling what more milestones Crosby may achieve before the season concludes.
