Pittsburgh Penguins Captain Sidney Crosby skating but no close to return - NHL News
Pittsburgh Penguins are in a rut, having lost six games in a row, including a 1-0 reverse at the hands of Washington Capitals that puts them outside the playoff contention in the Eastern Conference.
There is however, some good news as captain and centre, Sidney Crosby travelled with the team, and coach, Dan Bylsma said that Crosby would start skating as he travels with Penguins on their road trip.
The Centre has been missing since December 5th 2011 when he suffered concussion related injury against Boston Bruins and medical staff became concerned about his health.
The captain missed the first 20 games of the season due to a concussion injury, making a brilliant comeback on November 21st against New York Islanders.
The centre was seen inside Washington Capitals' stadium as he took a seat in the press box.
Crosby looked healthy but Bylsma wants to take no risks with his health and has still not provided any set timetable for the player’s return.
"He will be skating during this trip," Bylsma said. "He also will, at some point in time, address the media. That will happen in the next few days. It isn't a set plan, but it will happen."
The news will bring a sigh of relief to Penguins fans since the team has greatly missed Crosby on the rink and have not won a single game since Crosby last played against Bruins.
Even though there is no set return date for Crosby, the news that he will do some skating will give the whole Penguins' side a lift.
"I'm not sure what's fair to say," Bylsma said.
"Obviously he has been working out and having light exercises in the weight room and on the bike. We'll certainly be glad to see him on the ice."
Crosby, who has played just eight games this year, showed his class and talent during his small cameo this season.
The centre has scored two goals while making ten assists for a total of 12 points. His importance to the Penguins is immense and his teammates are hoping that their Captain will recover soon to help them snap their six game losing streak.
"Sid is on the road. Sid is with his team. We want him around," forward Pascal Dupuis said. "He's obviously our leader, our team captain and when things aren't going our way it's fun to see him around."
Penguins will face the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning playing both games away from home.
Penguins have to quickly snap their losing streak and resume their push toward a playoff berth, the task will be difficult without their Captain and Leader on the rink but the Penguins have an experienced roster and can easily turn around their fortunes.
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