Penguins Star Finds Much-Needed Spark
After lengthy struggles with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Evgeni Malkin may have gotten a new level of determination.
PITTSBURGH – For the better part of a month, the Pittsburgh Penguins have gotten less than stellar performances from Evgeni Malkin. The 18-year NHL veteran has seen his goal scoring almost completely evaporate while bringing nothing to the Penguins top power play unit.
At the age of 37, it would make sense for Malkin to start seeing fewer roles and a decrease in playing time, but the Penguins have faith in their future Hall of Fame center. That confidence paid off when Malkin scored in the dying seconds against the Florida Panthers to force overtime.
You can see it in his celebration, that was a bigger goal for Malkin than it was the team. Up to that point, he had only scored one goal in the previous 10 games. Not to mention the own goal that came off his stick against the Arizona Coyotes.
Following the eventual shootout loss to the Panthers, Malkin was honest about his recent run of play and lack of confidence.
“You see my goal on own net, it’s down for my confidence,” Malkin said. “Next game I need goal for sure. Now I feel so much better. Everybody show me this video when I score own net, it’s like, I know it’s bad luck.”
Malkin saw his role on the power play diminish against the Panthers as he and Erik Karlsson were dropped to the second unit on the Penguins eighth and final power play opportunity of the game. Despite seeing a lower role, Malkin hopes to turn his late goal into a confidence booster.
“We still fighting for playoffs,” Malkin said. “I try and help the team win every game.”
According to Rob Rossi of the Athletic, Malkin vows there is still a lot left in the tank. Malkin can see he hasn’t been at his best and knows what people are saying, but he promises to rebuild himself.
“But I’m not done as good player. I know what is true.”
The Penguins would benefit in a huge way if Malkin was able to find his groove again and play much like he did at the beginning of the season. In 45 total games this year, Malkin has scored 16 goals and 23 assists for 39 total points. A setback in production is expected, but not at the rate we’ve seen.
Malkin believes he still has a lot to give and the Penguins are hopeful to see is as they continue to fight for a spot in the playoffs.
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