Pittsburgh Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan has publicly praised Evgeni Malkin, stressing that the Russian forward is among the greatest players in the history of the sport. This sentiment was shared by journalist Josh Getzoff, who reported the coach’s thoughts with clear admiration for Malkin’s career and impact on the ice.
According to Sullivan, Malkin’s passion for scoring is unmatched. He described the veteran forward as someone who loves putting the puck in the net more than almost anyone else, underscoring the belief that Gino ranks among the all-time elite in NHL history. The remarks place Malkin in a prestigious conversation about the game’s most influential scorers and scorers who have defined eras with their consistency and skill.
On December 28, Malkin moved into a notable position by surpassing Sergei Fedorov, a former Penguins star, in the tally of goals across his NHL career. The milestone reinforced Malkin’s standing as a top Russian sniper in league history, with Alexander Ovechkin leading the list with a record that remains a benchmark for ambition and longevity in the sport. The comparison highlights how generations of players from Russia have shaped the NHL’s scoring records and left a lasting imprint on the league’s legacy.
In the most recent complete NHL season, Malkin appeared in all 81 games for Pittsburgh, contributing 27 goals and 56 assists. His production helped him climb to the second-highest point total for the Penguins, showcasing his enduring value to the club. Crosby led the team with 90 points, a testament to the depth of talent and the high level of performance that defines Pittsburgh’s roster and its approach to competition in a demanding schedule.
Looking ahead, Pittsburgh is set to host St. Louis in what promises to be a compelling matchup as the Penguins continue their regular-season push. The game is scheduled to tip off in the home arena, with the puck dropping at three o’clock in the morning Moscow time. The encounter will feature both teams bringing determination and strategic depth as they vie for important standings points, underscoring the ongoing narrative of a season rich with rivalries, goals, and hard-fought wins.
Earlier in his career, Malkin himself earned recognition as one of the top Russian players in the history of the sport, a distinction that has continued to follow him as he adds chapters to a storied professional journey. His career achievements reflect a blend of elite skill, relentless work ethic, and a willingness to take on challenges that place him among the sport’s most enduring legends.