Crosby still skating, could return soon

--C Sidney Crosby skated once again before the Penguins defeated Tampa Bay 8-5 at Consol Energy Center on Saturday. Crosby has skated almost every day since resuming practice sessions with the team on Jan. 13. As always seems to be the case, there remains no known timeline for his return. Crosby watched the game from the press box and was in good spirits. Although Crosby recently admitted to being unsure of his return date, many close to the situation believe he will return to action soon.

--Returning home after a lengthy road trip was crucial for the Penguins on Saturday. Much of their offense is currently coming from the top line of Evgeni Malkin, James Neal and Chris Kunitz. On the road, coach Dan Bylsma is unable to get favorable matchups for his top line, and its production has slowed. At home against Winnipeg, the Penguins thrived because Bylsma was able to keep his top unit away from the opposition's top checkers. The Penguins' top line responded by accounting for three goals and eight assists.

QUOTE TO NOTE
"We all know we have to be way better defensively. But the way Geno is going, it was OK for today." -- D Kris Letang on Evgeni Malkin.

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