Eagerly Awaiting Crosby's Return

Frank Smith gives his take on when Sidney Crosby should be expected back on the ice.

(AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)

January of this year was the last time C Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins participated in an NHL match. It has been almost a year since last year’s Winter Classic, when Washington Capitals 6’5’’ C David Steckel struck Crosby with a dirty hit.

Sid the Kid’s return has been eagerly anticipated since last season. Though he practices with the team and is cleared for full contact, his return is not yet certain.

In a USA Today report, Penguins head coach Dan Bylsma was quoted as saying, “He’s…progressing, but he will not be playing this week”.

Earning a salary of $9 million this season, Crosby is wasting the team’s money sitting out awaiting a triumphant return. It is interesting to note that even without Crosby, the Penguins are atop the Atlantic Division.

Crosby’s next possibility of returning to the ice, if Coach Bylsma keeps him sitting for the week, would be November 21st at home against the New York Islanders.

Hopefully Crosby can regain his bearings and be ready to play. He’s a fan favorite and Pittsburgh’s front office is hoping for a hasty return to stop the hemorrhage of money his injury has caused. Look for Sid the Kid to sit this week but make his return the week of November 21st.