Pens’ Staal could return for Winter Classic

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

PITTSBURGH — Penguins forward Jordan Staal, out all season while recovering from an infected foot and a broken hand, could return for the Winter Classic against Washington.

Coach Dan Bylsma said on Friday that it will be a game-time decision. Staal has been skating all week.

One of the NHL’s best two-way forwards, Staal didn’t miss a game to injury during his first four NHL seasons. But he hasn’t played since Pittsburgh’s Game 7 loss to Montreal in the second round of the playoffs in May.

Staal’s right foot developed a series of infections after being cut in that series. He broke his right hand in practice Nov. 1, just as he was ready to resume playing.

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