Locker Room Talking Points from Crosby, Letestu, Goligoski & Bylsma

Sidney Crosby on Jordan Staal skating: Yeah know, that’s good. I think he’s happy to be skating at least, It’s been a long 4 or 5 months. So, yeah that’s encouraging.”

Crosby not worried about lack of production: “Yeah I think so, ” Crosby said when asked if it’s too early to worry. “I mean we’re {Crosby, Malkin} getting good chances, Creating a lot. So that’s hockey, not too worried”

Mark Letestu on playing with Evgeni Malkin: “I’m trying not to play outside of what got me here. He’s a good player but the reason I’m getting to play with him is because I play a certain way and certain style that got be here. The message was clear, doesn’t matter whose on the wings, just keep playing the way I have been and not trying to get too overwhelmed because 71 is on the wing.”

Alex Goligoski on his strong start: ” I feel good. You know, body feels really good. Have a lot of energy. Looking forward to staying consistent and try to keep going with that.”

Goligoski on the challenge of playing without Michalek, Orpik: “Yeah definitely, those two guys we lost are probably two of the best defenseman we have. Big physical guys and they’re just extremely solid out there. We definetely take it as a challenge for us six to fill the void.”

Dan Bylsma on not rushing Staal back:

“He’s on the ice right now getting comfortable and It’s not really a test for his foot but just getting on the ice and getting into the skates in addition to his off-ice workouts. It’s nice for him to be able to get out there and twirl around a bit. but We’re not to a point yet where he’s decided he wants to get into gear and go out for a more serious workout.

It’s a sign that he’s progressing and he’s able to get out there and get some work in. He hasn’t been able to do that for a while. Again i need to reiterate that there’s no rushing Jordan back. This isn’t a sign that he’s ahead of schedule. His schedule is healing, he’s getting better, and he’s working hard off the ice.

Bylsma on Orpik, Michalek: “We have a better diagnosis for Brooks and he’s got a groin strain. Michalek is being seen by a physician later this afternoon and we’ll know more about where he’s at tomorrow.”

Blysma on if Michalek’s injury is long-term: He’s not in there tonight and we’ll see what the doctor says when he’s evaluated.