“Not bad. I mean, definitely some rust, but, I just have to find a way to make sure that I adapt as soon as possible. Every game is so big. If you come back at this point of the year, you got to find a way to get that timing and make sure my game is where it needs to be.”

The Penguins have finally finished a brutal road trip through Carolina, Vegas, Utah, and Colorado, so they will have several days of rest to prepare for a final push toward the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Are the Penguins eliminated from playoffs?

No. The Penguins are not eliminated from the playoffs, as they are in second place in the Metropolitan Division with 84 points. They control their destiny to advance to the postseason with 14 games remaining.

Is Sidney Crosby back with Penguins?

Yes. Sidney Crosby has recovered from his lower body injury and is available for the final stretch of the season with the Penguins. The legend lamented that, after coming back multiple times from deficits and taking a 5-4 lead, they were unable to capitalize in Carolina.

“That’s what we needed to do. Put ourselves in a decent spot. We just couldn’t find a way to get through. It was a really good push, but we have to close those out. Ultimately, it’s about winning the game.”

“He just was grabbing my stick… I don’t know what he expects me to do if he’s holding on my stick for that long,” Crosby told Taylor Haase of DK Pittsburgh Sports. “Plus, he slashed me after that.”

After Crosby confirmed his return for the Penguins, the captain logged over 18 minutes and added an assist to his goal in his first game back after missing 11 games with a Grade 2 MCL sprain suffered at the 2026 Olympics.

Crosby addresses physical exchange in emotional return

The altercation came during a second-period battle with Svechnikov, where repeated stick contact led Crosby to throw a punch, followed by a slash from Svechnikov that hit near his previously injured knee.

Both players were penalized, and Crosby later dismissed any notion that the Hurricanes forward was targeting his injury. “No, no. You know, he does that a lot regardless,” he said, downplaying the incident despite its intensity.

Hurricanes outlast Penguins in high-scoring finish

The game turned into a back-and-forth battle, with Erik Karlsson and Bryan Rust contributing for Pittsburgh as Carolina responded to force overtime. Sean Walker scored the winner with 28.3 seconds left in OT. “We’ve got to find a way to win that game,” Crosby said after the loss.

First, Crosby took line rushes between Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell as if it were a normal day with his usual pairing. Given this, Taylor Haase reported that everything pointed to him returning today.

Minutes later, Evgeni Malkin confirmed to reporters that his teammate was available to face a Stanley Cup contender like the Hurricanes in Carolina. “Guys, he’s back! Crosby is back!”

Sidney Crosby will play today for Penguins vs Hurricanes

In addition to all these signs, Sidney Crosby said in the locker room that Malkin was indeed right. So, after his injury in the quarterfinals of the 2026 Winter Olympics, the legend is back.

Sidney Crosby and Penguins’ run to the playoffs

Sidney Crosby’s return comes at a key moment in the season. Almost no one expected them to survive a very tough road trip through Carolina, Utah, Colorado, and Las Vegas, but without their star, the Pens remained in a playoff spot. Now, with 15 games left, Sid and Evgeni Malkin will try to fight for another championship.

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 for Penguins vs Hurricanes in Carolina?

Yes. Sidney Crosby is playing 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.

Speaking on ESPN, NHL insider Emily Kaplan reported that the Hurricanes are expected to make one more attempt to land the Rangers forward before talks potentially stall. According to Kaplan, the Hurricanes “will make a final push for Vincent Trocheck,” signaling that Carolina remains serious about bringing the veteran into their lineup.

Despite that expected push, the Rangers are not believed to be close to completing a deal. Reports indicate the organization does not feel the current compensation being discussed is worthy of moving Trocheck at this point, leaving negotiations in a holding pattern unless the Carolina Hurricanes improve the offer.

Hurricanes could trade for Vincent Trocheck

Despite some reports suggesting the Carolina Hurricanes are out of the race for Vincent Trocheck, Emily Kaplan said during a live appearance on ESPN that the team cannot be completely ruled out yet.

While negotiations may have cooled and other teams have entered the picture, Kaplan indicated that Carolina could still circle back if circumstances change. For now, the Hurricanes remain a potential suitor, even if their chances appear less certain than earlier in the process.

The New York Rangers will have the final word, but, one thing is certain. The Hurricanes want to make a push to establish themselves as Stanley Cup favorites.

The Carolina Hurricanes have long been considered among the favorites to land Trocheck via trade. The veteran center has already played for the organization in Raleigh, and Carolina has the assets to lure New York. Thus, a move made complete sense for every party involved. However, the Canes may now be heading in a direction not many in the NHL saw coming.

“Sounds like the Carolina Hurricanes are working on a move for a bottom-six forward,” as reported by David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period on X.

Such a move from the Hurricanes could catch the Blueshirts by surprise. It might be fitting as the Rangers recently announced a surprising report on Trocheck, who missed Friday’s practice with the team. When it comes to the trade deadline, everything must be taken with a grain of salt, because looks can be deceiving, and in the NHL, teams use it to their advantage.

Are the Hurricanes out on Trocheck?

While a move for a bottom-six forward doesn’t necessarily mean the Canes are stepping down from the Trocheck sweepstakes, it could signal a change in direction for the front office in North Carolina. Moreover, after reports hinted the Rangers have found a dark horse to trade Trocheck, the Hurricanes may be losing ground, trailing behind in a race many believed they were destined to win.

It’s clear the Hurricanes are still interested in Trocheck. However, with the Rangers asking for an arm and a leg in return, it’s reasonable to believe Carolina may not be willing to pay such a price. Their move for bottom-six help could signal they are content with what’s already in place in Raleigh. After all, the Canes reached the Eastern Conference Final last season, and Trocheck wasn’t on the team.

Stay tuned

Although the 3:00 PM ET deadline is looming, the checkered flag hasn’t been waved yet, so anything can happen. Perhaps Carolina’s reported move is only a smokescreen to pounce on Trocheck. Or, better yet for fans in Raleigh, maybe the Canes kill two birds with one stone by addressing their bottom six while acquiring Trocheck right before the buzzer.

NHL insider Emily Kaplan recently highlighted a few franchises that could be monitoring the situation. “On Vincent Trocheck, Detroit, Carolina, even Boston I’m a bit curious about.”

With the deadline approaching quickly, teams interested in Trocheck must also consider the Rangers’ reported asking price. The Rangers have made it clear that it is not in a rush to move the veteran unless the right offer arrives. It’s a challenge for any Stanley Cup contender to find the right package.

Bruins could make trade for Vincent Trocheck

Among the teams mentioned, the Bruins stand out as a particularly interesting possibility. While the Detroit Red Wings and Carolina Hurricanes have already been connected to Trocheck in previous reports, Kaplan’s curiosity about the Bruins suggests that Boston could be quietly exploring all options.

The Bruins have historically been aggressive when opportunities arise to strengthen their lineup for a playoff run. Right now, they have a wild card spot with 73 points, but the margin is thin.

If the Boston Bruins decide to enter the race more seriously, it would add another contender to an already competitive market. There are just a few hours before the deadline.

According to a report from Elliotte Friedman, the Red Wings are already part of the discussions. “The Detroit Red Wings are involved in conversations about Vincent Trocheck, as is Carolina.”

For Detroit, acquiring Trocheck could add experience and depth to a lineup trying to win the Stanley Cup. However, any potential deal would likely depend on whether the Red Wings are willing to meet the Rangers’ asking price, which several reports have described as high as the deadline draws closer.

Red Wings meet Vincent Trocheck’s conditions for trade with NY Rangers

The Detroit Red Wings appear to meet the two conditions that Vincent Trocheck has reportedly prioritized in a potential move. Detroit is not located on the West Coast, which has been mentioned as an important factor for the player due to family reasons, and the team is also viewed as a Stanley Cup contender. That combination could make the Red Wings a realistic destination if the New York Rangers ultimately decide to move Trocheck before the NHL trade deadline.

Vincent Trocheck’s suitors in NHL trade deadline

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, several teams are potential suitors for Vincent Trocheck. The Detroit Red Wings and the Carolina Hurricanes have shown interest in the star, while the Minnesota Wild stand out as the only team known to have submitted a formal offer to the New York Rangers so far. However, that proposal was reportedly not accepted, as the Rangers continue to evaluate their options and seek the right return before making a final decision. The Bruins could also be an option.

Every option is still on the table. Although he is the hottest name in the rumor mill, the Rangers could prolong Trocheck’s stay with Mike Sullivan and company, shrugging off every potential suitor.

It seems there are only two requirements for teams pursuing Trocheck: they must be in the playoff bubble and located on the East Coast. If those conditions are met, they get the green light to knock on the Blueshirts’ door. Thus, the Hurricanes and Red Wings are strong candidates, along with their deep prospects pool and draft assets.

Dark horse for Trocheck

While reports indicated the Montreal Canadiens could help the Rangers avoid trading Trocheck to a longtime rival, another Atlantic Division counterpart has emerged as a potential landing spot. The Boston Bruins may have always been the dark horse in the race for the 32-year-old center.

“Carolina and Detroit remain the main teams I’m watching. Insider Pierre LeBrun mentioned Boston as a dark horse last night,” as reported by Vince Mercogliano of The Athletic.

Trocheck’s deal

The Rangers made it clear they could opt to keep Trocheck after the deadline. The fact a trade has yet to be announced might indicate they were serious. Trocheck is signed through the 2028-29 NHL season, so the Rangers are in no hurry to trade him if their asking price isn’t met. However, the market for Trocheck may never be as hot as it is on the eve of the trade deadline on March 6, 3:00 PM ET.

Many reports suggest New York could hang on to Trocheck for the remainder of the season and shop him again in the offseason, when his 12-team no-trade list becomes a 10-team list.

Virtually impossible scenario

For those wondering if Trocheck could end up completing his term with the Rangers, that is highly unlikely. With New York headed for a retool and Trocheck entering the twilight of his career, their timelines couldn’t be farther apart.

It is best for both sides to nip the problem in the bud rather than wait for a miracle as the forward grows frustrated. Currently, the relationship between the player and the team is positive, so the timing may be ideal for them to part ways.

The Minnesota Wild, Carolina Hurricanes, and Detroit Red Wings have emerged as the teams interested in Trocheck. It looks like they are all locked in a desperate race to land the center. As they all want to get Trocheck, the Rangers can easily get the most out of this deal.

Trocheck already said his preferred destination is not in the West. The fact is that the Rangers wouldn’t move Trocheck just because. But business is business, and that means that if the price is right, and now that price will be very high, you have to move on. Trocheck is a very good player and at 32-years-old, this could be the last big move in his career.

How did Trocheck fare in 2025?

Trocheck just won the Winter Olympics gold medal with Team USA. Trocheck played 45 games in 2025, scoring 38 points, and he has a strong defensive game too. He is a high-impact player. His two-way play is a very desirable assett and that’s why the Wild, Hurricanes and Red Wings are eager to land him.

Trocheck also has a clutch gene with him. His reputation is one of a player that steps up in big moments. He is right in the middle of a contract that carries a $5.625 million cap hit. During his four years with the Rangers, he has earned one All Star selection.

Why is Trocheck so desirable?

Not only is he an elite two-way player, Trocheck also delivers an instant offensive spark to a stagnant power play. All this while providing the heavy production needed to capitalize on the man advantage.

The Hurricanes, particularly, know what Trocheck brings to the table, as he played two and a half years for them before going to the Rangers. To big demand, huge offers, so the Rangers are absolutely ready to get the best deal possible.

Making his return to the lineup after a two-game absence, Miller recorded an assist during the Rangers’ visit to the Carolina Hurricanes in Raleigh. However, the captain did just what captains do: wear his heart on a sleeve when addressing the rest of the team. With a very sincere comment, the 32-year-old let Sullivan and company know his thoughts on New York’s performance in the City of Oaks.

“Tonight, I don’t think we were at our best,” Miller honestly commented after the game, via The New York Post. “We found a way to win, and I thought our third was our best period. It’s funny, you go out through the first 15 games of the year, how many games we thought we should have won. This is one of those that hopefully can help even some of those out.”

While Miller—and everybody on the Rangers—will gladly take the win and move on, the captain’s comments do serve as a reminder to Sullivan and the coaching staff. The way New York is playing can work for now, but it will most likely be short-lived. Sooner or later, the Blueshirts will have to show consistency.

Rangers know they can’t win them all

NHL seasons are 82 games long. No team in the history of the sport has ever gone unbeaten through an entire year. Although some have come close to an undefeated season, it’s safe to say no side will ever accomplish such a feat. Moreover, it’s impossible for a team to play at the top of their game every single outing.

The Rangers have learned that, but not without their fair share of bumps and bruises. What matters in the NHL is finding a way to walk away with points on a regular basis. It doesn’t always have to be pretty. That may be the case with New York’s latest win over Carolina.

As the Blueshirts’ captain, J.T. Miller, admitted, it wasn’t the best performance from the squad, but when it’s all said and done, the only thing fans will remember days from now is the big “W” next to the final score.

What Sullivan and New York needed

Following the big win on home ice against the St. Louis Blues, Sullivan’s Rangers had to prove they could keep the momentum going when hitting the road. Up to this point in the NHL season, the Broadway Blueshirts have been seemingly hexed. Either they put on embarrassing performances at home and deliver on the road, or vice versa. Having consistent production regardless of where they played seemed to be a lot to ask from New York’s fans. Perhaps that can change now.