Max Talbot has known Sidney Crosby since he was 13-years old.
They were the closest of friends in Pittsburgh and remain best buds even though Talbot now wears a Flyers jersey.
Tonight, Talbots friend returns to the ice for the first time since last January. Crosby has been recovering from post-concussion syndrome.
Its definitely good news for the league and for him. Its been a long, tough road back, Talbot said at the Flyers morning skate.
I think its great for hockey. Hes such an important player to the NHL. Every hockey fan should be happy he is back and healthy.
Pittsburgh hosts the Islanders.
Its going to be a little bit like when Mario Lemieux coming back, Talbot predicted. Its a big game for the Penguins and for hockey in generalIts something everyone anticipates.
NHL
Flyers coach Peter Laviolette said: Good for the Penguins, meaning not necessarily good for the Flyers who are No. 1 in the Eastern Conference, but tied with Pittsburgh in overall points25going into tonights game against Carolina.
Talbot and Crosby talk often.
I texted him Sunday and he texted me back how hes excited, Talbot said. We all know how much of a media circus its going to be
Like any player, the head is something you dont want to mess with. He took his time and it was for the best for his own sake. He did the right thing. No one can put himself in his shoes.
Crosby had consecutive concussive hits last season left him concussed and started the cycle of post-concussion syndrome where how he felt fluctuated daily. He was cleared for contact in October, but an outside source familiar with him said he was apprehensive about when to return, fearing that another hit could induce another concussion.
Sometimes you dont even have to hit the head, Talbot said. A shoulder to shoulder hit with the neck and could have a concussion. Things happen. Everybody needs to be glad he is back.
Crosby is booed constantly when he plays in Philly. Hes the arch-enemy from the West. Doesnt matter to Talbot.
He is a great guy, a great person and Im now afraid to admit I am his friend and I will probably be his friend all my life, Talbot said.
Talbot scored two goals, including the game winner in Game 7 of the 2009 Stanley Cup final that brought both of them their first Stanley Cup as Penguins.
Both players are represented by the same agent, Pat Brisson.
E-mail Tim Panaccio at tpanotch@comcast.net