Jordan Staal stuck in the NHL mere weeks after his 18th birthday in large part because he displayed a level of defensive excellence some centers never reach. Now in his sixth season, Staal, just 23, might have raised his offensive play to the same level. "He's so responsible in the defensive end," Penguins teammate Matt Cooke said. (Today)

They call the last two months leading into the NHL playoffs the stretch run, and, for members of the Southeast Division, there's a heightened sense of urgency this season. (Today)

Penguins center Jordan Staal, who has missed the past 15 games because of a torn medial collateral ligament in his left knee, will return to the lineup Saturday for an afternoon game against Winnipeg at Consol Energy Center. (Yesterday)

It was difficult not to notice Simon Despres' pronounced limp as he left Penguins practice Thursday and headed for the training room at Consol Energy Center. The way things have been going for the Penguins the past couple of years, there no doubt were strong concerns for this promising rookie defenseman, who just this week returned to practice as he recovers from a knee injury. (Yesterday)

Penguins coach Dan Bylsma has not divulged his plans for line combinations once center Jordan Staal returns, but one thing is clear: Staal, who could return as early as a home game Saturday afternoon against Winnipeg, will not be part of a reunion party with wingers Tyler Kennedy and Matt Cooke anytime soon. (Yesterday)