Two top players from Nova Scotia are set to represent Canada internationally.
Hockey Canada confirmed Sunday that Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby has joined the roster for the upcoming world championship tournament in Sweden.
It has also been reported that Nathan MacKinnon will team up with his long-time friend.
According to Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic, MacKinnon`s agent, Pat Brisson, confirmed that the Colorado Avalanche star will also be playing for Canada.
Crosby and MacKinnon, who are neighbors in Halifax, Nova Scotia, last played together at the 4 Nations Face-Off in February, helping Canada secure a gold medal.
This marks MacKinnon`s first appearance at the world championship since 2017, while Crosby`s last participation was in 2015.
MacKinnon`s NHL season recently concluded in disappointment on Saturday when the Dallas Stars eliminated his Avalanche with a dramatic Game 7 comeback victory.
“I`m just in shock, to be honest,” MacKinnon commented shortly after his team`s elimination.
Meanwhile, Crosby and the Penguins did not qualify for the NHL playoffs this season.
With their NHL seasons over, both players from Nova Scotia will now aim to finish on a high note by pursuing a gold medal at the championship.
Canada`s tournament schedule begins Saturday with a game against Slovenia.
Tristan Blackwood