Sam Bennett could take Sidney Crosby's spot in Team Canada's lineup after injury

Sidney Crosby absorbed a brutal, awkward hit from Radko Gudas early in the second period and everything looked bad from there.

Not long after, Crosby ended up leaving the ice hunched over... a sight Canadian fans never want to see, and then he disappeared down the tunnel.

Before the beginning of the third period, NHL insider Frank Seravalli confirmed the worst: Sidney Crosby would not return to the game.

Ahead of the game, Cooper made it known that Bennett was going to be a healthy scratch for Team Canada, but now that all changes.

If Sidney Crosby can't return back to the lineup for their next game, a big door opens for Sam Bennett.

Bennett could slot back into the lineup. He wouldn't be taking Crosby's spot on the second line, as that will most likely go to Nick Suzuki, but he more than likely would center the third line for Canada.

This would give Bennett more ice time than he has been given so far in this tournament and would be a massive chance for him to make his impact for Canada as they chase gold.

Canada is going to have to spread the depth out instead of just relying heavily on their top two lines.

Team Canada nearly beat Czechia 4-3 in overtime, and losing their captain did not help, but this has given other players an opportunity to jump up and make a name for themselves.

Is Sam Bennett a good replacement for Sidney Crosby?