Sidney Crosby said today he will play tomorrow night when the Penguins face the New York Islanders at Mellon Arena.

Crosby has missed the past seven games because of lingering problems with a high ankle sprain and conditioning concerns. Before that, he played in three games in a short comeback after missing 21 games initially because of the right ankle injury.

"My ankle feels great, and conditioning is as good as can get without playing," he said after particpating for more than an hour in the Penguins' optional practice.

"I feel strong. I feel a lot better than I did coming back the first time, a lot more confident."

Against the Islanders, Crosby finally will get a chance to play with prolific right winger Marian Hossa, who was acquired from Atlanta at the Feb. 26 trade deadline.