"The more time that elapses without an update on Sidney Crosby's health — it's at 15 days and counting — the more some of his teammates are beginning to worry.

Crosby hasn't played since Dec. 5, hasn't practiced since Dec. 7 and hasn't spoken with the media since Dec. 12.

When Crosby last spoke publicly, he said that concussion symptoms surfaced following the game Dec. 5 against the Bruins.

Although Crosby has been visible at Consol Energy Center, the fact that he hasn't appeared on the ice in almost three weeks suggests it might be awhile until the face of hockey is back in action.

"I try not to get too caught up in it," defenseman Matt Niskanen said. "I don't ask any questions. The team, the doctors and Sid will do what is best, health-wise."

And what if the best thing for Crosby is to stay away from hockey for a large chunk of time, even longer than his almost 11-month absence this year? What if Crosby has another concussion, and the condition is a chronic one for him?

"I'd be lying if I said I didn't think about it," Niskanen said. "There is always that scare, guys out there like Marc Savard, who probably aren't coming back. It's always a possibility."

Coach Dan Bylsma, when asked about Crosby, simply said: "There is no an update on Sidney right now.""