Sidney Crosby returns to the Pittsburgh lineup tonight against the New York Rangers after the Penguins captain was sidelined for three months by concussion-like symptoms.

Crosby, 24, says he's feeling good, and plans to play. He was taken off the ice in December after his previous injuries showed signs of flaring up.

Not everyone in the hockey world is sure he's ready to play, however, the CBC's David Common reports from New York.

"It's been exactly 100 days and 40 games since Sidney Crosby last played," Common says.

The NHL star's second return of the season takes place at Madison Square Garden.

"Of course, we all know what people are going to be watching for: will he be body-checked, will he go down, will he hurt himself again? And that is the great concern."

Crosby hopes to help in playoffs

Crosby returned to the ice to great fanfare last November, but played just eight games. His symptoms returned.

Now the Cole Harbour, N.S., native says he's ready for the rough play that is part of the game.

Crosby won't try to overdo it. Considering how well the team played without him — the Penguins are 16-4-1 in their last 21 games — he just doesn't want to mess things up.

"I just want to contribute and make sure I'm doing my part," he said.

The Penguins hope that's enough to help propel them past the Rangers and secure home ice throughout the NHL's Stanley Cup playoffs.

With files from The Canadian Press