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Sidney Crosby set to begin skating

WASHINGTON -- Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby is ready to resume skating.

Coach Dan Bylsma said before Pittsburgh's game at the Washington Capitals on Wednesday night that Crosby will skate during the team's current road trip, which includes visits to the Florida Panthers on Friday and the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday.

Crosby was with the Penguins and was in the press box wearing a jacket and tie on Wednesday. The Penguins lost their sixth straight.

"I don't think he's anywhere close to coming back," Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik said. "You can't really wait for him."

Out with lingering concussion symptoms, Crosby hasn't played since Dec. 5. He was sidelined for nearly 11 months before that because of a concussion, and returned on Nov. 21 with two goals. Crosby had 12 points in eight games before being sidelined again.

Bylsma said Crosby has been working out in the weight room and riding a bike. Bylsma added: "I'll certainly be glad to see him on the ice."

The coach said Crosby will speak to the media soon.

Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.