Sidney Crosby heartbroken amidst encouraging offseason in Pittsburgh

There is no doubt that captain Sidney Crosby is excited about the future in Pittsburgh since Kyle Dubas became the Penguins’ new president of hockey operations earlier this week. However, despite the encouraging changes coming to his team, Crosby is in mourning as one of his mentors passed away.

On Thursday, a key figure in the history of the Rimouski Oceanic of the QMJHL, which he led to its only Memorial Cup title in 2000, Doris Labonté died at the age of 69 after a long battle with cancer. He was Crosby’s chaperone during his two seasons in Rimouski.

When contacted by the Journal de Montreal during his vacation, Crosby could have turned down to comment on Labonté’s passing because of his busy schedule, but instead, he chose to make a statement to the Penguins’ representative that sent this to the newspaper. This has been translated from French, but his Crosby’s statement on the passing of his mentor.

“Doris had such a positive impact on me as a young player and even today as an NHL player,” commented Crosby.

He added that the relationship between the two men was more important than just the bond of player to coach.

“I am grateful for the friendship we have developed and for the incredible memories we have had together. I will miss him and I want to send my condolences to the whole family,” he said.

We send our thoughts and prayers to Labonté’s family and friends, which includes Crosby. I am sure the Penguins’ captain will continue to make his mentor proud.

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