Sidney Crosby has long been known as one of the NHL’s classiest figures — and his latest off-ice gesture only reinforces that reputation.
After the Pittsburgh Penguins parted ways with longtime equipment manager Paul DeFazio this offseason, Crosby stepped up to help his former colleague land a new job. DeFazio had spent 27 seasons with the organization, including the last six as assistant equipment manager and five before that as head equipment manager for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in the AHL.
Following his departure from Pittsburgh, Crosby personally reached out to the Columbus Blue Jackets, giving DeFazio a strong recommendation, according to Aaron Portzline of The Athletic. Thanks to Crosby’s call — and his connection with Rick Nash, a close friend and key member of the Blue Jackets' front office — DeFazio was officially hired by Columbus on Tuesday.
It may have been a small gesture from Crosby, but for DeFazio, it meant everything.
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