The Penguins have seen some tough luck in the second half of the season, losing top scorers Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin to injury, but that luck could be turning as the postseason approaches.
Though they have been without their top two scorers for nearly two months, the Penguins have still managed to stay atop the Atlantic Division, as well as secure a playoff bid for the fifth consecutive season. Their hard work without the offensive leaders will pay off in a big way, as they could see Crosby return for a postseason run, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.
Crosby was back on the ice this past week, impressing his teammates and other Penguins staffers with his individual workouts and his confidence on and off the ice.
"There's a good feeling around here," Penguins forward Pascal Dupuis said.
The "good feeling" could be associated with a lot of things going on in Pittsburgh lately, as the Pens have won eight of their last 10 games, including four straight shootout victories over the past week. The best news, however, is that people close to the Pittsburgh organization say that they expect to hear "Crosby is cleared" sometime soon from the team physician.
The first step for Crosby is returning to full-contact practice, an activity that could come as soon as this week. The captain will then focus on his return for the playoffs, if not before. The Penguins have six games remaining in their regular season.
Crosby was on a roll before he was sidelined by a concussion in early January, and even if he doesn't return to full strength immediately upon return, his teammates know it will be an incredible boost to see their leader back on the ice.
"Every player in this room has that drive and determination to win games, and it starts with our leader," forward Jordan Staal said. "It comes from Sid, the way he carries himself, and it goes right down the line."
Despite missing nearly all of 2011, Crosby continues to lead the Penguins in goals (32) and points (66) this season.
