Evgeni Malkin Reaches 500 NHL Goals: A Milestone in Pittsburgh Penguins History
In a thrilling matchup against the Buffalo Sabres on Wednesday night, Evgeni Malkin of the Pittsburgh Penguins achieved a remarkable milestone by scoring his 500th NHL goal. The goal came during a high-scoring affair that ended with the Penguins clinching a 6-5 victory at PPG Paints Arena. This achievement not only highlights Malkin’s exceptional talent but also cements his legacy within the franchise and the league.
A Historic Achievement
At 38 years old, Malkin became the 48th player in NHL history to reach the 500-goal mark. He is now part of an elite group that includes only three other active players: Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals, Sidney Crosby—Malkin’s long-time teammate—of the Penguins, and Steven Stamkos of the Nashville Predators. Ovechkin leads the pack with 853 goals, while Crosby and Stamkos have 593 and 555 goals, respectively. Malkin’s accomplishment is a testament to his longevity and consistency in a sport that demands peak physical performance.
The Goal That Made History
Malkin’s milestone goal came at a pivotal moment in the game, specifically at 3:26 of the third period. After diving toward the net and receiving a backhand feed from Crosby, Malkin managed to knock in a rebound of his own shot while lying on his back. This moment not only showcased his skill but also his relentless determination to contribute to his team’s success.
Malkin’s Season So Far
This goal marked Malkin’s second of the season, and he has been on fire, accumulating a total of 11 points (including nine assists) in just five games. His performance against the Sabres was particularly impressive, as he added three assists to his tally. Malkin’s ability to produce points consistently is a crucial asset for the Penguins as they navigate the early stages of the season.
A Legacy Built in Pittsburgh
Malkin’s place in Penguins history is significant. He ranks third on the franchise’s all-time goal list, trailing only the legendary Mario Lemieux and his teammate Crosby. With 1,307 career points, Malkin is also third in that category, behind Lemieux and Crosby. His contributions extend beyond just scoring; he has tallied 807 assists, further solidifying his status as one of the most complete players in the game.
The Journey to 500 Goals
Drafted second overall in the 2004 NHL Draft, Malkin has played 1,150 games for the Penguins, making him the second-most tenured player in franchise history, just behind Crosby. His journey has been marked by numerous accolades, including three Stanley Cup championships. Malkin’s first Cup win in 2009 was particularly memorable, as he was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy for his outstanding performance during the playoffs, where he recorded 36 points in 24 games.
Recognition from Teammates
Malkin’s achievement has not gone unnoticed by his teammates. Crosby, the Penguins’ captain, expressed his pride in being part of Malkin’s journey to 500 goals. "The milestones, those are things that you’re always going to remember," Crosby said. "It’s fun to be part of those." Defenseman Kris Letang, who has played alongside Malkin since the 2006-07 season, echoed this sentiment, praising Malkin’s skill set and the incredible journey he has had in the NHL.
A Competitive Spirit
Malkin’s competitive nature is evident in his approach to the game. He has consistently set high goals for himself, stating, "First of all, score two goals… My goal all the time [is], like, four points every game." This relentless drive to win and contribute to his team’s success has been a defining characteristic of Malkin’s career.
Career Highlights
Throughout his illustrious career, Malkin has achieved numerous milestones. He won the Art Ross Trophy as the NHL points leader twice, with a career-high of 113 points in the 2008-09 season. In the 2011-12 season, he led the league with 109 points and scored 50 goals, earning him the Hart Trophy as the NHL MVP. These accolades, combined with his three Stanley Cup victories, solidify Malkin’s status as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
The Drive to Win
Malkin’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: "My personality, it’s like, ‘Win every game.’ It’s what I do all my life." This mindset has propelled him to greatness and continues to inspire his teammates and fans alike. As he celebrates this significant milestone, Malkin remains focused on the ultimate goal: bringing more championships to Pittsburgh.