The Pittsburgh Penguins have stayed in the NHL playoff race despite having played three weeks without Sidney Crosby. The legend suffered a lower body injury during the 2026 Winter Olympics following a sequence with Radko Gudas.
From that point on, the Pens placed their star on injured reserve and announced that the estimated recovery time was one month. Although Crosby said he was close to being able to participate in the gold medal game against Team USA, the reality is that his recovery process has taken time.
Now, at the end of a very tough road trip for Pittsburgh, the big question is whether Sidney Crosby will be available to face the Carolina Hurricanes. Another test for the team against a Stanley Cup contender.
Is Sidney Crosby playing today for Penguins vs Hurricanes?
Yes. Sidney Crosby will play today for the Pittsburgh Penguins against the Hurricanes. The legend confirmed he’s back after he was part of his regular line and pairing during the morning skate session in Carolina. The veteran also took the ice with the top power play unit alongside Erik Karlsson, Bryan Rust, Rickard Rakell, and Evgeni Malkin.
When will Sidney Crosby return?
Sidney Crosby will return today when the Penguins visit the Hurricanes in Carolina. Then, the Pens will have three days of rest after the road trip. That will give the veteran margin to also play on Saturday at home against the Winnipeg Jets.
Can the Penguins still make the playoffs?
Yes. The Penguins can make the playoffs as they have had a very solid performance during the tough road trip, with consecutive wins over Utah and Colorado. The Pens are in second place in the Metropolitan Division with 83 points, and a win would bring them closer to Carolina in the standings.