The Pittsburgh Penguins received a timely boost ahead of their clash with the New York Islanders, as captain Sidney Crosby inches closer to a return.
The Penguins have nine games left and remain in the playoff hunt. They are pushing to end a three-season postseason drought, making Crosby’s health a major factor. He leads the team with 64 points in 61 games and remains central to their attack.
Head coach Dan Muse confirmed that Crosby and Evgeni Malkin were full participants in practice. Both players have dealt with recent injuries, making their involvement a key step forward during a crucial stage of the season. Crosby, along with Bryan Rust and Noel Acciari, also traveled with the team to Long Island.
Muse said Malkin’s status still needs clarity after practice, but Crosby’s progress stood out.
The veteran forward was active and moving well, even jumping during drills, which points to a possible return soon. While Crosby did not confirm if he will play, his approach suggests he is close.
“These are the games you want to be in,” Crosby said about Monday’s clash with the Islanders.
Crosby is listed as day to day after suffering a lower-body injury in a shootout win against the Ottawa Senators. The injury followed his recent return from a previous setback, which occurred during the Olympics, adding concern about his durability late in the season.
Despite that, Pittsburgh remains in a strong position in the Metropolitan Division with a solid 36-21-16 record. Their offense and special teams have kept them competitive, but recent inconsistency has raised pressure.
Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) comes off the ice at Lenovo Center.James Guillory-Imagn Images
(James Guillory-Imagn Images)
With the season winding down, the Penguins will hope their captain returns in time to lead the final push.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.