Amidst rumours that Sidney Crosby's lingering concussion issues may have him still sitting into the start of next season, Pittsburgh Penguins general manager Ray Shero told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review there's been nothing that has forced their star captain from shutting down his offseason training regimen.
But Shero did say that Crosby has had some recurrence of concussion symptoms.
"There are going to be some symptoms with this injury, but nothing where he's had to shut it down or anything," Shero told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review on Sunday, adding that he was in contact with Crosby over the weekend.
"He's pushed himself, which is good."
Crosby hasn't played in a game since Jan. 5 against the Tampa Bay Lightning. He was diagnosed with a concussion and has yet to be cleared for contact skating.
Shero told the Tribune-Review that clearance would not be sought by the player and team until at least a week before training camp, which opens Sept. 16.
"There's never been a situation where he's needed to be cleared to play," Shero explained.
The concern arose when NHL Home Ice radio producer Josh Rimer posted a message on Twitter that stated Crosby would not be ready to start the upcoming season.
On his Twitter page (@JoshRimerHockey), the message read: "Also hearing from 3 sources now that Sidney Crosby won't b ready 2 start season. I hope its not true because the NHL needs its best players!"
Shero did confirm that Crosby remains cleared to train regularly without contact. He has been working out at various local rinks in Halifax since mid-July.
The Penguins GM said Crosby will not be pushed to join the Penguins for on-ice practices at camp - or even when the regular season is scheduled to open for them on Oct. 6 in Vancouver.
"I'm only interested in making sure he's comfortable when he returns to play, end of story," Shero told the Tribune-Review. "I'm about the bigger picture with this thing."
Shero said Crosby has 'seemed good' during their conversations.
