PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh Penguins centre Sidney Crosby will sit out the next two games as a precaution, though general manager Jim Rutherford says it does not appear the star is dealing with the mumps.

ESPN's Katie Strang is reporting that Crosby tested negative for the mumps.

The two-time NHL MVP participated in Friday morning's skate but acknowledged not feeling well recently and his right cheek was visibly puffy. Crosby underwent some testing on Friday, with specialists recommending Crosby take a couple of days off. Rutherford said additional tests are pending.

Multiple players on multiple teams from coast to coast have come down with the mumps, an illness more typically associated with children.

Crosby leads the Metropolitan Division-leading Penguins with nine goals and 26 assists in 27 games.