Pittsburgh Penguins News

The Penguins listed Crosby as a game-time decision on Friday but announced he will play on Saturday morning. Crosby will centre the top line with Jake Guentzel and Evan Rodrigues.

Carter missed the last three games while he was in COVID-19 protocol but could return to the lineup on Saturday. Carter was on the second line and top power-play unit in Friday's practice, both good signs that he'll return to the lineup vs. the Devils. Carter has had a nice start to the season, scoring one goal with three assists (four points) in four games.

Crosby has missed the first seven games of the season but has been skating regularly for the last two weeks. In Friday's practice, he skated on the top line with Jake Guentzel and Evan Rodrigues and was on the top power-play unit, both good signs that he'll play Saturday. Crosby had 62 points (24G / 38A) in 55 games a season ago.

Rakell left Thursday's game in the third period and did not return. Because of the back-to-back, the Ducks have yet to provide an update on Rakell, so consider him a game-time decision.

Nieto is day-to-day with a lower-body injury and will not play vs. Montreal. With Nieto out, look for Lane Pederson to draw back into the Sharks lineup.

Dewar has scored two goals with two assists (four points) in four AHL games this season. Dewar was one of three players called up because Mats Zuccarello and Rem Pitlick were placed on the COVID-19 reserve list. If he plays on Thursday, it would be his NHL debut.

The Penguins said that they are keeping Crosby's timeline internal, so it's unclear when Crosby will make his season debut. Their next game is Saturday vs. the Devils.

Timmins left Monday's game after playing just 10:05 TOI and did not return. The early indications are that Timmins will miss at least two months, which will put the Coyotes' blueline in a big conundrum.

Crosby continues to skate with the team but is not quite ready to make his season debut. Monitor Crosby's progress leading up to Thursday's game vs. the Flames.