from Sam Kasan of the Penguins website,

Crosby, who missed Game 1 Wednesday and the last 12 games of the regular season with a broken jaw, met with his doctor Thursday after practice and was cleared to return to game action.

“I’m cleared to play tonight,” Crosby said. “I’m excited to get back in there and play in the playoffs.

“(The doctor) was around and I wasn’t sure if he would give me the OK or even consider it. I’m happy that he did and happy to be back.”

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