No timetable on Sidney Crosby's return

PITTSBURGH, Sept. 7 (UPI) -- Pittsburgh center Sidney Crosby said he expects to play this season -- but is unsure when -- as he still is recovering from a concussion early this year.

Crosby hasn't played for the Penguins since Jan. 5, when a hard check appeared to compound an injury suffered Jan. 1. He was subsequently diagnosed with a concussion.

"He will not return until he is 100 percent," Penguins General Manager Ray Shero said Wednesday. "There is no 90 percent returning from a concussion. As we sit here today, we're very pleased with his progress."

Crosby, who turned 24 last month, won the Hart Trophy as the NHL's most valuable player in 2007 when he led the league in scoring. He was the NHL goals leader in 2009-10, a year after helping the Penguins to the Stanley Cup title.

Crosby said Wednesday he still has headaches because of the January injuries but is getting better. However, he wouldn't say when he might return to the ice.

"It's not as simple as saying there's a date and I'll feel better," Crosby said. "I'd love to have answers sometimes."

Dr. Michael Collins, who has been treating Crosby, said the player is "making progress."

"I anticipate Sid returning to hockey and playing well in the future," Collins said. "We're going to make sure he's 100 percent recovered."