Professional Hockey Doctor Agrees: Recent Concussion Likely To Keep Sidney Crosby Out of Game 7

Penguins star center Sidney Crosby has missed a combined 108 regular season games with concussion-related symptoms, but just one playoff game.

His most recent concussion, suffered on a Jacob Trouba hit last Wednesday, will cause him to miss today's Game 7 against the New York Rangers.

The NHL's concussion protocol does not set a minimum period that a player is required to sit out, leaving the door open for a potential return. However, Crosby has a significant history of concussions and is just four days removed from the most recent blow.

A current NHL medical director and team physician not associated with the Penguins agreed with the analysis we detailed on Saturday. A player with Crosby's concussion history should not be allowed to return in such a short period.

There has been optimism recently regarding Crosby's availability. He was spotted at practice Saturday morning wearing his usual jersey, not a non-contact jersey.

However, every player knew not to get near the star player regardless of his jersey status.

No two concussions are the same and it's possible that Crosby is symptom-free. However, symptoms can reemerge with physical activity and the Penguins medical staff are likely to take a cautious approach with allowing the 34-year-old to return.

Rangers vs. Penguins Game 7 Odds

Crosby missed Game 6 and in return the Rangers rallied from a two-goal deficit to win 5-3. New York has won two straight since the Crosby injury including the game where he was injured with the Rangers scoring three straight to take the lead after he exited the ice in the second period. The Rangers are the favorite in Game 7 and the over/under is 6 goals, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.