World juniors 2025: Canada captain on time with Sidney Crosby

The city of Ottawa was abuzz with the arrival of a new hockey sensation, Brayden Yager. The young player had caught the attention of many as he joined the Pittsburgh Penguins for their training camp in September 2023. One of the first to welcome him was none other than the legendary Sidney Crosby, who made sure Yager felt right at home.

Yager, in awe of Crosby’s accomplishments with three Stanley Cup wins and two Olympic gold medals, was inspired by the captain’s leadership on and off the ice. He described Crosby as one of the best players to ever grace the game and was grateful for the opportunity to learn from him.

Traded to the Winnipeg Jets shortly after, Yager carried the lessons he learned from Crosby as he took on the role of captain for Team Canada at the world junior hockey championship. The 19-year-old center expressed his pride in wearing the Maple Leaf and leading a team of talented individuals.

Reflecting on his time with Crosby, Yager emphasized the importance of leading by example and putting the team above all else. These values have guided him through the tournament, where Canada is set to face Czechia in the quarterfinals.

Known for his scoring prowess in the Western Hockey League, Yager embraced a shutdown role at the championship, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the team’s success. Despite the pressure of the knockout rounds, he remained focused on contributing in any way possible.

With a successful junior career and a promising future in the NHL, Yager’s journey took an unexpected turn when he was traded to the Jets. However, he embraced the change with enthusiasm, grateful for the warm welcome he received from his new team.

Teammate Berkly Catton praised Yager’s dedication and willingness to sacrifice for the team, highlighting his natural leadership qualities. The Saskatoon native’s transition to the Jets was seamless, thanks to his strong work ethic and team-first mentality.

Yager’s experience with Crosby left a lasting impact on him, instilling in him the values of hard work, dedication, and humility. As he continues to grow as a player and a leader, he remains grateful for the opportunity to learn from one of the game’s greats.

This article was originally published by The Canadian Press on Jan. 1, 2025, showcasing Yager’s journey from a promising prospect to a captain leading his country on the world stage.