On September 23, 2025, during Flyers training camp, Head Coach Rick Tocchet revealed that Sidney Crosby—Captain of the rival Pittsburgh Penguins—personally called him during the 2025 IIHF World Championships to rave about Flyers forward Tyson Foerster.
Crosby, who lined up alongside Foerster on Team Canada’s top-six forward group (often with Macklin Celebrini), described the 23-year-old as “a sponge,” highlighting his ability to absorb high-level play and contribute effectively against elite competition. This endorsement came to light amid buzz about Foerster’s impressive international performance earlier in the year.
At the Worlds (held May 2025 in Sweden and Denmark), Foerster notched two goals and one assist in six games played, earning trust from Canada’s staff to play alongside one of hockey’s all-time greats. His board work, forechecking, and seamless fit with Crosby’s line were standout, signaling his readiness for a bigger NHL role with the Flyers.
- Line Chemistry: Foerster’s physical, detail-oriented game complemented Crosby’s playmaking, creating scoring chances like an assist on Bo Horvat’s goal. Analysts noted it as a “testament to how effective” Foerster is becoming at the NHL level.
- Broader Recognition: Foerster’s tournament helped elevate his profile, with scouts and media praising his evolution from a 2020 first-round pick (23rd overall) into a reliable two-way winger. Back in Philly, he’s fresh off a two-year, $7.5M extension (AAV $3.75M) signed in summer 2025.
- Current Status: Foerster is sidelined early in camp with an elbow injury from the Worlds (infection-related), but GM Danny Briere expects him cleared for contact within a week and ready for Opening Night vs. the Islanders on October 9.
Crosby’s unsolicited call underscores the respect Foerster commands across the league—especially rare given the Flyers-Penguins rivalry. This is a great endorsement from “Sid the Kid”. Expect this to fuel Foerster’s push for top-six minutes in 2025-26.
Foerster is looking to have a big 2025-26 season, and now he’s wearing a regular jersey.
Check out our Flyers Nitty Gritty Store
Cool Matvei Michkov merchandise
About Author
