Sidney Crosby did not play in the Pittsburgh Penguins' preseason game Saturday against the Columbus Blue Jackets after his grandmother passed away, the team announced.
Crosby traveled to Nova Scotia to be with his family, according to the team. Coach Mike Johnston told the Penguins website Saturday he expects Crosby to return Sunday and play Monday against the Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center.
"I talked to Sid [Saturday], obviously these situations are really difficult for individuals," Johnston said. "And as an organization, you're always going to side on the player making sure his family is taken care of. But I talked to Sid a few minutes ago and the funeral arrangements are being made. He's expecting to be here [Sunday] sometime and then play on Monday."
The Penguins captain was scheduled to make his preseason debut after missing the start of training camp with an unspecified injury.
Forward Andrew Ebbett played in place of Crosby and had the game-winning goal in Pittsburgh's 2-1 win.
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