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Penguins' Sidney Crosby: Closing in on return

Crosby has missed the last three games with an upper-body injury, but head coach Mike Sullivan told reporters the 31-year-old "looks pretty close [to returning]". The Penguins, meanwhile, would certainly welcome their captain's return, having lost nine of their last 10 games. Sid the Kid, limited to 16 games this season, has eight goals and 19 points.

Penguins' Sidney Crosby: Not ready to return

Coach Mike Sullivan expected Crosby to be sidelined for about a week, which would put his potential return date as Wednesday versus Dallas. The world-class center did take the ice for Monday's game-day skate with his teammates, but rotated in on defense rather than joining forward line rushes. If Sid the Kid takes on a bigger role at practice Tuesday or Wednesday, it will be a good indication he is ready to face the Stars.

Penguins' Sidney Crosby: Officially ruled out Saturday

Per Matt Vensel of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, it looked like Crosby was "skating pretty hard" near the end of Saturday's morning skate, but Penguins coach Mike Sullivan has confirmed that the future Hall of Famer will miss the next contest. Fortunately for the Pens, Derick Brassard said he'll be ready to go against the Sens.

Penguins' Sidney Crosby: Skates solo

Coach Mike Sullivan originally told reporters he felt Crosby would be out for a week, so it seems unlikely he will be ready to go against Ottawa on Saturday. Prior to getting hurt, the Cole Harbour native notched five points in three outings. The Pens may get Derick Brassard (lower body) back for Saturday's game, which would help bolster their center depth with Sid the Kid sidelined.

Penguins' Sidney Crosby: Ruled out Thursday

Crosby did take part in Thursday's game-day skate, per Sportsnet Pittsburgh, but a potential one-week absence would see him out for the next four games with a possible return date of Nov. 23 against Boston. With Derick Brassard (lower body) still sidelined, the Penguins will need to lean heavily on Evgeni Malkin and Phil Kessel.