Team Canada's Loss to Team USA a Troubling and Unfortunate Result for Sidney Crosby

It was the most highly anticipated game and was nearly 9 years in the making, but last night's contest between Team Canada and Team USA did not disappoint.

From the 3 fights in 9 seconds, to Connor McDavid's dazzling opening goal, to Jake Guentzel's match winning brace, it had it all.

With the win, the Americans also clinched top spot with one game to spare and ended Sidney Crosby's unprecedented unbeaten streak while donning the Canadian jersey.

Crosby entered last night's contest with an unbeaten streak that stretched 26 games across 15 years. International play was hard to come by after the 2014 Winter Olympics, with the only noteworthy tournament being the World Cup of Hockey in 2016.

Nevertheless, Crosby's streak stretched through the Olympic Games in 2010 and 2014, the World Championships in 2015, the World Cup of Hockey in 2016, and the first game of the 4 Nations Face-Off. He also tallied 10 goals and 29 points in that span with Team Canada owning a +85 goal differential along the way.

The streak endured for most of Crosby's NHL career as the 20-year veteran was only 22-years-old during the 2010 Winter Olympics. Chris Johnston of The Athletic put it into perspective best when he said:

Now it all comes down to Monday afternoon when the Canadians get back onto the ice and face off against Team Finland, who are coming off an emotional victory against their bitter rivals in Sweden.

All 3 teams have 2 points as of right now with Canada holding the edge over Finland due to goal differential. Crosby will look to get back on the scoresheet after a 3-assist performance in their first game against Sweden.

Barring a regulation victory from Sweden over Team USA, a victory over Finland should guarantee the Canadians another crack against the Americans in the finals.