'Going to be different': NHLers talk new training camp realities

Sidney Crosby navigated the gruelling physical tests many times. The strength challenges. The long, lung-busting skates. The stationary bike rides where players pushed to the limit. Set to enter his 22nd NHL season, however, the Pittsburgh Penguins captain will have a decidedly different experience when his team assembles for training camp this week. The league has done away with mandatory fitness testing ahead of the 2026-27 schedule, while the exhibition calendar includes just four games per club as part of a series of changes included in the new collective bargaining agreement. Crosby, 39, said players come to camp in much better shape compared to past generations. "It's tough timing after doing it for 21 years," he said with a laugh at the recent NHL/NHLPA player media tour in Las Vegas.