"The Penguins, despite their strong start, remain only a side act to hockey's hottest star.

Thing is, Sidney Crosby still isn't playing.

His comeback will not happen tonight against the Colorado Avalanche at Consol Energy Center, but even that was a subject of confusion Monday after his team practiced. A recap:

>> Crosby took the place of injured left winger Steve Sullivan on a line with center Evgeni Malkin and right wing James Neal during the approximately 70-minute practice at Consol Energy Center.

>> He was the last skater to leave the ice after working individual drills with backup goalie Brent Johnson.

>> He declined to speak with the media upon entering the dressing room.

"Nothing's changed, Sid's not talking," said Frank Buonomo, senior director of team operations. "I don't blame him."

Buonomo also serves, unofficially, as Crosby's media contact with the Penguins."