Crosby out vs. Rangers with upper-body injury

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Sidney Crosby won't play in Friday's contest against the New York Rangers due to an upper-body injury, coach Mike Sullivan told reporters, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.

It's the first game he's missed since 2022.

Crosby, 37, suffered the ailment in Tuesday's game versus the New Jersey Devils. He left the contest after an awkward collision in the third period but ultimately returned 10 minutes later.

Crosby participated in Friday's optional practice and skated on his own Thursday. Sullivan said it's encouraging that he's back on the ice, but he doesn't have a timetable for his return, per Dan Rosen of NHL.com.

Crosby is set to be Canada's team captain for the 4 Nations Face-Off, which begins Feb. 12.

The 20-year veteran has 17 goals and 41 assists in 55 games this season.