Penguins' Evgeni Malkin off to Career-Best Start
Evgeni Malkin has led the Pittsburgh Penguins to back-to-back victories.
Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin is off to one of the best starts he has had in his career. The 37-year-old Russian has scored six points (2G-4A) in the Penguins' first three contests, tying him for the league lead one week into the season.
His hot start through three games has also tied a personal record for the Penguins legend, matching the six points he scored to open the 2018-19 season. Malkin finished that year with 72 points (21G-51A) in 68 games.
Malkin's early success is partially due to the speed with which he has built chemistry with Reilly Smith. Coming off a Stanley Cup with the Vegas Golden Knights, Smith became a salary cap casualty this offseason, being sent to Pittsburgh for a 3rd round pick.
Smith and Malkin combined to score three of the Penguins' six even-strength goals over the weekend. All three showcased Smith's ability to create scoring chances off the rush, something Malkin hasn't had on his wing since the departure of Phil Kessel.
Malkin has proven early that even at 37, he can take over a game at any moment. His playmaking abilities have been on display this season, and he'll look to continue that trend against the Detroit Red Wings on Wednesday night.
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