Crosby returns to lineup after missing 5 games in COVID-19 protocol

The Pittsburgh Penguins got Sidney Crosby back for Sunday's game against the Washington Capitals. Crosby is occupying his usual spot on the Penguins' top line between Jake Guentzel and Bryan Rust.

Earlier Sunday, Pittsburgh activated the captain from the NHL's COVID-19 protocol list along with defensemen Brian Dumoulin, Chad Ruhwedel, and Marcus Pettersson.

Pittsburgh re-assigned forward Drew O'Connor, defensemen Pierre-Olivier Joseph and Juuso Riikola, and goaltender Louis Domingue to the AHL in corresponding moves.

Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan also returned Sunday after entering the protocol Nov. 4.

Crosby had appeared in just one previous game this season. The 34-year-old center missed Pittsburgh's first seven contests while recovering from offseason wrist surgery before landing on the COVID-19 list.

The shorthanded Penguins lost 6-3 to the Ottawa Senators on Saturday.