Pittsburgh Penguins Provide Update on Evgeni Malkin

The Pittsburgh Penguins are excited to see Evgeni Malkin skating on his own this week and it sounds like he could be back in the lineup sooner than later.

Malkin was seen out before Wednesday's practice skating with some assistant coaches, working on his game and all signs are he looked good. He's recovering from off-season surgery and the initial timeframe was October and November so the Penguins forward appears to be right on schedule.

Penguins coach Mike Sullivan had this to say about when he expects to see #71 on the lineup:

We have a ballpark idea of when we think he'll be available. I'm always reluctant to put a date out there, because if we don't meet that date, everyone speculates. We'll see how he progresses as he gets closer, but what I will tell you is that we're very encouraged with the progress that he's made.

The Penguins struggled early but have turned it around thanks to the goaltending from Tristan Jarry. The team has welcomed back Sidney Crosby and Bryan Rust and are looking forward to getting back to full compliment.

Evgeni Malkin working before #Pens morning skate. pic.twitter.com/2TDI3JFXMH

— Wes Crosby (@OtherNHLCrosby) November 24, 2021

As for Malkin he's coming off a season where he recorded 28 points on 33 games. He's a pending free-agent who has a lot riding on this season so there's no doubt he's chomping at the bit to get going.

Photo credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports