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Pens announce Sheary, Crosby’s running mate, out 4-6 weeks

Colorado Avalanche v Pittsburgh Penguins

PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 17: Conor Sheary #43 of the Pittsburgh Penguins looks on during the game against Colorado Avalanche at PPG Paints Arena on October 17, 2016 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

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Conor Sheary’s breakout campaign took a major hit on Wednesday, as Pittsburgh head coach Mike Sullivan announced Sheary would miss the next 4-6 weeks with an upper-body injury.

Playing alongside Sidney Crosby on the Penguins’ top line, Sheary has blossomed into a solid offensive producer this season. He has 17 goals and 35 points through 42 games, and has seen his usage spike dramatically -- last year, his first in the NHL, he averaged 9:45 per night.

This year, he’s up to 15:18.

More: Sheary’s found a home on the Crosby line

It’s unclear exactly how Sheary got hurt. He played quite a bit (16:52) in last night’s 4-2 win over Nashville and he, along with Crosby and new linemate Patrick Hornqvist, combined to score the game-winning goal.

As for how many games he’ll miss?

If his recovery is on the short side -- one month -- he’ll miss all 12 games in February. If his absence stretches to six weeks, he could miss as many as 20.

No word yet on who might replace Sheary on the top line. The Pens had an optional skate this morning.