The Pittsburgh Penguins announced on Sunday afternoon that center Sidney Crosby will make his long-awaited return to the ice on Monday night against the New York Islanders. The announcement came via the Penguins team website:

The Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby will return to the team’s lineup on Monday night when the Penguins host the New York Islanders at 7 p.m. at CONSOL Energy Center. 

Crosby has not played since January 5 of last year due to concussions. The Pens also announced that Crosby will be available to the media after practice on Monday morning. Crosby was cleared to participate in contact practices just over a month ago and speculation of his return has been widespread all fall. Pittsburgh is currently tied for first in the Eastern Conference with 25 points, but getting back the face of the franchise, and the league, will certainly be a welcome sight after being out for nearly a year.

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