Malkin sidelined with upper-body injury

The Pittsburgh Penguins announced that forward Evgeni Malkin is day-to-day with an upper-body injury and will miss the game against the Colorado Avalanche. This news comes shortly after Malkin returned from a five-game suspension and contributed two goals in a recent victory over the Avalanche.

Malkin, in his 20th NHL season, has recorded 15 goals and 37 assists for 52 points this season, ranking second on the team in assists and fifth in points. With his experience, Malkin has been pivotal for the Penguins, having played a significant role in their three Stanley Cup championships.

As the Penguins sit second in the Metropolitan Division with 86 points, Malkin's absence could pose a challenge as the team navigates a tough stretch of games. The Penguins have allowed 42 goals over their last ten games, indicating defensive struggles that could be exacerbated without Malkin's offensive contributions.

Malkin is also on the verge of a significant career milestone, needing just two points to reach 1,400 career points, a feat accomplished by only 22 players in NHL history.