Pens' Crosby becomes youngest captain in NHL history

May 31, 2007, 20:45 GMT

Pittsburgh, PA - Sidney Crosby became the youngest captain in NHL history on Thursday when he was awarded the post by the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Crosby, at just 19 years and nine months (297 days), surpassed Tampa Bay's Vincent Lecavalier, at 19 years and 10 months (324 days), when he was named Lightning captain in March, 2000.

'Sidney has done so much for this franchise in his first two seasons, made so much history, that you have to keep reminding yourself that he is only 19 years old,' Penguins general manager Ray Shero said. 'But Sid's contributions extend far beyond statistics and his incredible achievements on the ice. It is obvious to all of us -- coaches, players, management, staff -- that he has grown into the acknowledged leader of the Pittsburgh Penguins. It is only appropriate that he wears the 'C' as team captain.'

Crosby was the team's first overall pick in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, and as an 18-year-old rookie in 2005-06, he tallied 39 goals and 63 assists in 81 games. He also played for Team Canada in the 2006 World Championships and became the youngest player ever to lead that tournament in scoring, collecting 16 points in nine games.

This season, the star center became the youngest scoring champion in NHL history, recording 36 goals and 84 assists in 79 games.

Crosby is also the youngest player in NHL history to record 100 points in a season and 200 points in a career.

'It's a privilege to be captain,' said Crosby. 'It's something I have always dreamed of and to get this opportunity is exciting for me. I understand that there is going to be a lot more responsibility on my shoulders with this, but it's something I am ready for.'

Mario Lemieux, who retired in January 2006, was the last to captain the Penguins. Four players -- Mark Recchi, Sergei Gonchar, John LeClair and Crosby -- served as alternate captains this season.

© 2007 The Sports Network