During a pivotal NHL playoff tilt, Russian forward Evgeni Malkin added another chapter to Pittsburgh’s postseason legacy by outscoring Czech legend Jaromir Jagr for the Penguins in Stanley Cup play. The moment came when Malkin found the back of the net against the New York Rangers, marking a milestone that echoed the franchise’s storied rivalry with Jagr and underscored Malkin’s continuing impact on playoff hockey.
With that goal, Malkin reached the 66th career Stanley Cup goal of his time in Pittsburgh, moving past Jagr who had tallied 65 for the club. By this metric, Malkin stands among the franchise’s all-time leaders, occupying a place that reflects both longevity and clutch performances when the stakes are highest.
The Penguins surged to a commanding 7-2 victory in Game 4, a result that gave Pittsburgh a 3-1 edge in the best-of-seven series. The lopsided scoreline not only reinforced the team’s momentum but also served as a clear message to the Rangers that Pittsburgh could impose its tempo on the series at will when their top players are firing.
Earlier in the season, the NHL.com writing staff engaged in a forward-looking discussion about the Hart Trophy, the league’s prize for the most valuable player during the regular campaign. Their process involved weighing a range of statistical benchmarks, leadership intangibles, and the impact players have in turning teams into legitimate Stanley Cup contenders, beyond mere goal totals and assists.
In that conversation, the bleeding edge of the debate focused on the usual blue-chippers who drive their teams to the front of the standings. In first place on their list were the Toronto Maple Leafs and their star, Austin Matthews, whose scoring prowess and offensive influence drew widespread confidence from analysts. In second place came Jonathan Huberdeau of the Florida Panthers, whose playmaking and production helped keep Florida near the top of the league’s leaderboard. Slotted in third was Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers, whose all-around speed and vision have long made him a centerpiece of offensive creativity. The group also highlighted the rise of Igor Shesterkin as a top goaltending force and Johnny Gaudreau of the Calgary Flames among the top five, reflecting a broad view of both forwards and goalkeepers who shape outcomes over the course of the season.