Penguins’ Matt Murray close to return from concussion

Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Matt Murray. (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

PITTSBURGH — Penguins goaltender Matt Murray looks ready to return from a concussion that’s kept him out for the past three weeks.

Murray practiced with his teammates on Monday and could be available on Tuesday night when the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions visit the New York Islanders.

Coach Mike Sullivan said Murray looked strong during Pittsburgh’s workout. Murray hasn’t played since taking a shot off his mask in practice late last month.

The Penguins created a spot for Murray on the roster on Monday when they reassigned Tristan Jarry to the club’s American Hockey League affiliate in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Jarry split starts with Casey DeSmith during Murray’s absence.

Pittsburgh has hung tough without Murray, who helped backstop the Penguins to consecutive Cups. The Penguins trail first-place Washington by two points in the Metropolitan Division with 10 games left in the regular season.

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