When Penguins' players could not select a jersey no. higher than Sidney Crosby's 87?

Sidney Crosby has been a legendary player for the Pittsburgh Penguins. He's led the team to three Stanley Cups during his career. However, there has been some confusion among new players about the alleged "Crosby Cap" when it comes to jersey numbers.

Drake Caggiula and Rickard Rakell were both told that nobody on the team can wear a number higher than Crosby's number 87. But according to multiple sources who spoke anonymously, there is no official rule in place.

“It’s not a hard rule, I think it’s more guys see nobody wears a higher number than Sid’s and assume it’s our rule. It isn’t. That doesn’t mean we encourage it. We don’t.” one source said according to The Athletic

The sources clarified that players are not discouraged from requesting to wear a number higher than 87. But they would be told that nobody has done so since Tomas Vokoun wore number 92 during the 2012-13 season.

Sidney Crosby himself has nothing to do with any jersey number restrictions. Exceptions would be made for a player like Patrick Kane, whose number 88 would be available if he were to join the Penguins.

Former Penguins general manager Ray Shero clarified that there was never a rule in place that prohibited a player's salary from being higher than Crosby's. Sid the Kid's contract has an average annual value of $8.7 million. Evgeni Malkin previously had a higher cap hit of $9.5 million, which Crosby supported.

Ultimately, the "Crosby Cap" on jersey numbers is simply a misunderstanding among some players. As the team continues to work through their struggles, Sidney Crosby's focus remains on the game and leading the Penguins to success.

The Unmatched Legacy of Sidney Crosby: A Career of Excellence in the NHL

Sidney Crosby was born on August 7th, 1987, and began playing hockey at a young age. He quickly established himself as a standout player.

Crosby was selected first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut during the 2005-2006 season and was immediately recognized as one of the league's top players.

Over the next few seasons, Crosby became the marquee player in the NHL, winning numerous awards and honors. These include the Hart Trophy (NHL's most valuable player), the Art Ross Trophy (leading scorer), and the Ted Lindsay Award (NHL's most outstanding player). He also helped the Pittsburgh Penguins win the Stanley Cup in 2009.

Despite suffering from various injuries throughout his career, Sidney Crosby has continued to perform at a high level. He has consistently been among the league's leading scorers. In addition to his individual accomplishments, he also helped the Penguins win two more Stanley Cups in 2016 and 2017.

Crosby has been named to the NHL's first All-Star Team four times. He has also represented Canada in international competitions, winning two Olympic gold medals and numerous World Championships.