Pens' Crosby to miss regular-season opener

DETROIT (AP) - Sidney Crosby is expected to miss the Pittsburgh Penguins' season-opener next week because of a concussion sustained in January.

After the Penguins practiced Saturday at Joe Louis Arena, the Pittsburgh captain said he didn't think there was a realistic chance he would play in Vancouver on Thursday night.

"No. I wouldn't expect it. No,'' he said.

Crosby hasn't played since absorbing hits in consecutive games four days apart. He was diagnosed with a concussion on Jan. 6. He has skated with the team since Sept. 17, but hasn't been cleared for contact.

Crosby had 32 goals and 34 assists in 41 games last season, giving him a team-high 66 points.