By Dave Molinari

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

UNIONDALE, N.Y. -- Sidney Crosby won't be in the Penguins' lineup when they try to clinch a playoff berth this evening.

Crosby participated in the Penguins' game-day skate at Nassau Coliseum, but pronounced himself not ready to return for tonight's game against the New York Islanders at 7:08. Crosby said he will "not necessarily" rule himself out of the Penguins' game at New Jersey tomorrow.

Crosby, who has already missed 26 games this season because of a high ankle sprain, has 22 goals and 45 assists in 49 games.

Defensman Rob Scuderi will return to the Penguins lineup tonight after being out nearly a month because of a severely broken little finger on his left hand. The Penguins plan to play using seven defensemen tonight.

The Penguins will be without winger Pascal Dupuis, who went to Atlanta where his wife is giving birth. Ty Conklin is expected to be in goal for the Penguins.