Evgeni Malkin

Russian centre and alternate captain for the Pittsburgh Penguins, known as 'Geno'.

Evgeni Vladimirovich Malkin (born 31 July 1986) is a Russian professional ice hockey player who is a centre and alternate captain for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League (NHL). Nicknamed "Geno", Malkin began his career with his hometown club Metallurg Magnitogorsk, playing for their junior and senior teams. He was then selected second overall in the 2004 NHL entry draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins, though an international transfer dispute delayed the start of his NHL career until 2006. Malkin is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of the modern NHL era and a quintessential piece of the Pittsburgh Penguins' salary cap era success.

Quick Facts

Born: 31 July 1986
Birthplace: Magnitogorsk, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union
Position: Centre
Shoots: Left
League: NHL
Team: Pittsburgh Penguins
Former teams: Metallurg Magnitogorsk
Draft: 2nd overall

Lore & Background

After his first season with the Penguins, Malkin was awarded the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL's best rookie. In his second season, he helped lead Pittsburgh to the 2008 Stanley Cup Final and was a runner-up for the Hart Memorial Trophy. The following season saw Malkin win the Art Ross Trophy and again placed second for the Hart Trophy. He and the Penguins again reached the Stanley Cup Final, winning the Stanley Cup championship this time around. Malkin was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as most valuable player of the playoffs. In 2012, Malkin was awarded the Hart Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award after winning the Art Ross Trophy for the second time; his 12-point lead was the largest margin of victory since 1999.

Reader's Guide

Malkin set a modern NHL record when he scored a goal in each of his first six games. No player had achieved this feat since the NHL's inaugural 1917–18 season. Malkin finished his rookie season with 33 goals, 52 assists and 85 points in 78 games played, leading all first-year players and capturing the Calder Memorial Trophy. He was named alternate captain for the Penguins shortly after. In his second season, he recorded his first NHL hat-trick against the Toronto Maple Leafs on 3 January 2008. He completed the season second in NHL scoring with 106 points. In the 2008 Stanley Cup playoffs, he scored 22 points in 20 games. In the 2008–09 season, Malkin won the Art Ross Trophy with 113 points. He signed a five-year, $43.5 million contract extension with Pittsburgh on 2 July 2008.

Did You Know?

Malkin was drafted second overall in the 2004 NHL entry draft, behind national teammate Alexander Ovechkin.
Malkin won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2009.

Frequently Asked Questions

What role does Evgeni Malkin play for the team?

As a center, Malkin serves as a primary offensive engine and a cornerstone of the Penguins' modern dynasty. His elite skill set allows him to control the pace of the game while forming a legendary partnership with Sidney Crosby.

What major awards has Evgeni Malkin won?

Throughout his career, he has secured numerous top individual honors, including the Hart Trophy for league MVP and the Art Ross Trophy for leading the NHL in scoring. These accolades highlight his status as one of the sport's most decorated players.