Pittsburgh Penguins (3-2-1)
Buzz is surrounding the Pittsburgh Penguins’ locker room with the possibility that captain Sidney Crosby will return to the lineup for tonight’s game against the Florida Panthers. Crosby hasn’t played a game yet this season, and, while the team has turned in some solid performances, the captain’s presence has clearly been missed.
Listed as a game-time decision, Crosby will only start if he feels comfortable enough to suit up.
“He had a strong practice this morning,” Sullivan said. “Everything is pointing the in right direction. If he’s comfortable, he could play.”
Defenseman Kris Letang was ruled out of Tuesday night’s game with an upper-body injury, but head coach Mike Sullivan said he was encouraged to see him take to the ice during practice.
Florida Panthers (3-1-1)
As part of the Penguins’ 50th anniversary celebration, former Penguin Jaromir Jagr, who played with the team from 1990-2001, was given a piece of the Civic Arena.
Tonight we honored a prominent figure in Penguins history, @68Jagr. Read more: https://t.co/q85TO82FTCpic.twitter.com/eryM74wxcX
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) October 25, 2016
At 44 years old, Jagr shows no sign of slowing down or stopping, but, this season he has just a single goal and two assists.
The Panthers will take to the ice without of few of their key players in the lineup, as well. Forwards Jonathan Huberdeau, Nick Bjugstad and Jussi Jokinen will all be out of tonight’s game.
“We’re missing pretty good players and the young guys coming in, they’ve filled their role,” Jagr said.
Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?
Prediction
Assuming the Penguins will play with their captain for the first time in the 2016-17 season, Pittsburgh will have some new energy.
Crosby will help his team notch another win by a score of 4-2.
Where: PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh, PA
When: Tuesday, October 25 @ 7:00 p.m. EDT
Watch: ROOT, FS-F, NHL.TV
Image credit: Kenneth Cappello
