Sidney Crosby a game-time decision Saturday vs. Devils

The Pittsburgh Penguins started the season 3-0-2 without superstar Sidney Crosby, who is still working his way back from wrist surgery he underwent on Sept. 8. However, the Pens have since suffered two blowout losses at home ahead of Saturday's game versus the 3-2-0 New Jersey Devils at PPG Paints Arena. 

Pittsburgh coach Mike Sullivan said Thursday Crosby is "getting closer and closer" to making his season debut, and both the captain and forward Jeff Carter are set to be game-time decisions Saturday evening. 

Carter entered the NHL COVID-19 protocol on Oct. 22 and has been out of action since.  

"[Carter's] practice today was real encouraging," Sullivan told reporters Friday, per Wes Crosby of the NHL's website. "The good thing about him, because he was asymptomatic, he was able to ride the bike, work out and train throughout the process, which I think is a big help for him when he does get back on the ice for a day like today. So he responded really well to the practice.

"As of right now, his status would be a game-time decision. We're certainly really encouraged with what we saw today. Sid, is a similar circumstance. He will be a game-time decision tomorrow as well. But certainly, we were really encouraged by his practice today." 

Crosby has practiced throughout the midweek, and forward and linemate Evan Rodrigues is encouraged by what he's seen from the future Hall of Famer. 

"He looks like Sidney Crosby," Rodrigues remarked. "It looks like he hasn't missed a beat. From the first drill of practice, he goes 100 miles an hour and is playing at a top speed. It's nice to have him back. Hopefully, he gets in a game here soon."

After Saturday, the Pens don't play again until next Thursday's matchup versus the Philadelphia Flyers.