Associated Press 8y

Canada picks Sidney Crosby as World Cup captain

NHL, Pittsburgh Penguins, Chicago Blackhawks, Montreal Canadiens

Canada has chosen Sidney Crosby as its captain for the World Cup of Hockey.

Crosby returns as Canada's captain after wearing the "C" for the 2014 Sochi Olympics and 2015 world championship. He is coming off his second Stanley Cup as captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews and Montreal Canadiens defenseman Shea Weber will serve as the alternates. Coach Mike Babcock called them "great men who have had unbelievable on-ice success."

General manager Doug Armstrong said his roster is full of leaders but that Crosby, Toews and Weber stood out.

"These are three leaders who have demonstrated their ability to win at all levels, and we are looking to them to bring that experience, and their relentless pursuit of excellence, as we come together as a team," Armstrong said.

Crosby scored one of Canada's biggest goals in international history when he beat U.S. goaltender Ryan Miller to win the gold medal on home ice at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. Now 29, Crosby has two gold medals, two Cup rings and a Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.

Toews has won three Cups as Chicago's captain. Weber spent six seasons as captain of the Nashville Predators before being traded to Montreal for P.K. Subban in late June.

Canada begins training camp Sept. 5 in Ottawa. The World Cup begins Sept. 17 in Toronto.

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