Sykora Returns To Practice, Expected in Lineup for Tuesday's Game Against Flyers

Petr Sykora practiced for the first time today since Oct. 10. He was out the first two games of the season with a groin injury and has missed practices because of illness. While he had hoped to return to the lineup tonight, but both he thought it was better to not rush.

“I was aiming for today but it didn’t happen,” Sykora said. “I felt the pressure of the game coming. I tried to have a good practice and try to get back as soon as possible and it didn’t happen. You have to take it day by day.”

Head coach Michel Therrien thought it was a better idea for Petr to just take it easy and not worry about tonights game, and rather focus on getting better.

“We will be cautious with Petr,” head coach Michel Therrien said. “He’s going to have to be 100 percent. It’s a long season. We don’t want to take any risks.”

Due to the great deal of injuries, ranging from foot problems with Ryan Whitney, to a dislocated shoulder to Sergei Gonchar, the Penguins cannot take another injury. There powerplay has lacked shots, and missing a sharpshooter like Petr Sykora will hurt the PP. Fortunately, he will be back soon, and likely will be placed on the PP to hopefully end the lack of PP shots/goals.