Hockey has long been perceived as a young person’s sport. However, stars like Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin are redefining this notion as they continue to excel in their late 30s and beyond. They exemplify a growing trend in the NHL where seasoned players remain at the top of their game.
Stars Defying Age in the NHL
At 37 years old, Sidney Crosby performed at a remarkable point-per-game pace last season. Likewise, Alex Ovechkin, now 40, is on track to surpass 900 career goals after recently breaking Wayne Gretzky’s record. These players are not only maintaining their performance but also showcasing the advantages of advancements in sports science and training techniques.
Brad Marchand and Corey Perry are additional examples of players thriving well into their late 30s, with Perry playing a pivotal role in last season’s Stanley Cup Final. The Panthers coach, Paul Maurice, emphasized how sports science has revolutionized player recovery and conditioning. His team is at the forefront of these innovations, contributing to a culture of longevity in the sport.
Investment in Player Wellness
Investment from team owners in player wellness has equipped athletes with better recovery methods. This emphasis on health is crucial as the sport evolves and competition intensifies. Players, including Patrick Kane, believe in a full-year training regimen. Kane, set to turn 37 in November, aims to surpass Mike Modano for the most points by a U.S.-born player.
- Players are prioritizing nutrition and training year-round.
- Recovery techniques are tailored to individual needs and performance data.
- Old-school training practices are fading as players adapt to modern methods.
Sam Reinhart, a younger player, finds inspiration in the dedication of older stars like Crosby and Marchand. He believes proper care and hard work can extend a player’s peak performance well into their later years.
The Role of Experience in the Playoffs
Older players are often seen as invaluable during the playoffs due to their experience and perspective. Maurice’s insights highlight the importance of seasoned players, as they tend to bring the best out of themselves at critical moments. Marchand is a notable example, having demonstrated clutch performance in key playoff games.
Victor Hedman, approaching 35, also emphasizes the significance of understanding one’s body and maintaining fitness. His consistent performance, including playing 76 to 82 games over the past four seasons, showcases how preparation pays off.
For Ovechkin, durability has been a defining trait of his career. Despite facing injuries, he has remained a dominant force on the ice, a characteristic acknowledged by Capitals coach Spencer Carbery. The narrative around aging players is shifting, with many setting new benchmarks in hockey performance.
Conclusion
The trend of older stars like Crosby and Ovechkin highlights an evolving landscape in hockey. With advancements in training and wellness, aging players are not just surviving—they are thriving. This shift presents an exciting future for the NHL, proving that age is just a number in the world of sports.
