Contrary to the internet, the Pittsburgh Penguins will not burst into flames if Sidney Crosby is forced to miss parts or the whole of the 2011-12 regular season.

Rather, those elements of the team which helped to secure 106 standings points last season (the second-most in franchise history) will be back, and in many cases healthier and more familiar with their roles within the team structure.

Crosby or no Crosby, team defense and goaltending will get the Penguins where they want to go. No one will have to step up in the possible absence of their captain—they’ll need only to do their jobs.