Evgeni Malkin recently addressed his milestone achievements as he enters his 19th NHL season, aiming for his 500th goal and 1,300 points. Speaking on September 19, 2023, just after Pittsburgh Penguins training camp began, Malkin expressed his desire to reach these milestones quickly, particularly as the season opener against the New York Rangers approaches.
Malkin noted, “First of all, score two goals,” and emphasized that he aims to achieve this during the regular season, not the preseason. His consistent goal is to earn four points per game while helping the team win.
With 1,145 games played for the Penguins, Malkin ranks second in franchise history, trailing only Sidney Crosby, who has played 1,272 games. Malkin’s career stats include 1,296 points, comprising 498 goals and 798 assists. Although he may not be the explosive player he was a decade ago when he won the Hart Trophy and the Art Ross Trophy, Malkin had a strong performance last season with 67 points, falling second to Crosby’s 94.
“I’m still hungry, I still want to win every game,” he stated, sharing his ongoing ambition for one or two points in each game.
Kris Letang, who has played alongside Malkin since their rookie season in 2006-07, believes Malkin’s confidence on the ice sets him apart and creates challenges for opponents. Letang remarked on Malkin’s impressive combination of physical presence and skill.
The trio of Malkin, Crosby, and Letang is the longest-tenured group in major North American sports history. They have celebrated each other’s milestones, including Crosby’s 500th goal and various milestone games.
Crosby noted the significance of shared moments and memories over the years, highlighting the excitement surrounding Malkin’s approach to 500 goals. “We know how close he is. Hopefully, Game 1, we can see him do it,” he said.
After experiencing two consecutive seasons without playoff appearances, Malkin expressed determination to change this trend. “The last two seasons, it’s not fun,” he reflected, emphasizing the importance of winning for the team’s fans and the city.
Head coach Mike Sullivan appreciates the bond among Malkin, Crosby, and Letang, comparing their dynamic to that of siblings, full of both rivalry and genuine care. Sullivan humorously suggested the idea of putting Malkin on the wing with Crosby to help facilitate goal No. 500.