The Penguins lineup was very depleted right towards the Four Nations Face-Off as they were without Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Bryan Rust. But they are getting some reinforcements back as Malkin and Rust are good to go for the Penguins Saturday matchup against the Capitals.
That is a big boost for the team as they sit six points out of a playoff spot going into the matchup against the Capitals. If the Penguins can pull off wins against the Capitals Saturday and the Rangers Sunday, they are right back in the playoff race.
Penguins to honor Mike Lange before the game
Legendary Penguins broadcaster Mike Lange passed away on Thursday night at the age of 76.
Lange was the legendary voice of the Pittsburgh Penguins and everyone in the Pittsburgh area knew him and loved him and knew his iconic goal calls. From "Make me a Milkshake Malkin" to "Slap me silly Sidney", everyone knew just from hearing his voice on the TV broadcasts and the radio.
He is up there with Doc Emrick as one of the most iconic TV and radio broadcasters ever and he is being honored before the Penguins vs Capitals game on Saturday.
Tomorrow we honor a legend 💛 pic.twitter.com/pi86IB07a7
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) February 21, 2025
Depending on Crosby's status, Malkin and Rust could play on the same line on Saturday
In Friday's practice, Malkin and Rust were skating together on the top line with winger Rickard Rakell. Crosby was not back from the Four Nations Championship Game yet and coach Sullivan arrived late and gave the media an update on his status for the Penguins game on Saturday.
Mike Sullivan and Sidney Crosby traveled on some plane back to Pittsburgh today. Sounds like Crosby’s injury didn’t worsen during the tournament. Crosby told Sullivan he feels pretty good. I would assume he will play tomorrow but he’s being labeled a game time decision.
— Josh Yohe (@JoshYohe_PGH) February 21, 2025
If the Penguins decide that Crosby is not ready to play in Saturday's game, then Rust and Malkin will be on the first line playing together. But if Crosby is ready to play, he will take his usual spot on the Penguins first line between Rakell and Rust.
Penguins fans are holding their breath and hope Crosby plays as he is one of the backbones to the team and is instrumental in helping the Penguins try to get back to the playoffs with around 25 games remaining in the season.