Canada rules Crosby out for Olympic hockey semifinal vs. Finland

MILAN — Sidney Crosby is not going to play in Canada’s semifinal sport in opposition to Finland on Friday.

According to sources, Crosby continues to be hopeful to return for the gold medal sport ought to Canada advance, but it surely’s unclear if he’ll be capable to.

Crosby underwent an MRI for the lower-body damage he sustained in Wednesday’s thrilling 4-3 time beyond regulation quarterfinal win in opposition to Czechia, through which he exited through the second interval. Sources mentioned the imaging confirmed that it was not the worst-case state of affairs for Crosby, with coach Jon Cooper saying “We’ve got the best of the best looking at him” and that the staff would take the scenario daily.

Crosby, 38, didn’t take part as Canada held an optionally available skate Thursday. The staff had a closed morning skate Friday. Sources instructed ESPN that Crosby was seen carrying a strolling boot on the resort Friday.

“We’re not going to put anyone in harm’s way,” Cooper mentioned Thursday. “But if [Crosby] can play, he’s definitely going to.”

Connor McDavid will function Canada’s captain in opposition to Finland. Per worldwide rules, each staff should have a participant carrying a “C” within the lineup.

“He’s Sidney Crosby,” McDavid mentioned Thursday. “He’s going to have a big influence, no matter what. In the lineup, not in the lineup, he’s going to have a big influence. That’s what he does.”