Evgeni Malkin

Evgeni Malkin is a Russian center for the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Malkin was selected 2nd overall behind Alexander Ovechkin in the 2004 draft. Malkin began his professional career at the age of 17 in the Russian Superleague, with Metallurg Magnitogorsk. The Russian Hockey Federation refused to allow Malkin to leave to play with Pittsburgh at first, and Malkin continued to impress with his play on the international stage. He captained the Russian junior squad to a silver medal in 2006, then skated with the Russian Olympic team and was named the best player on the team, despite being the youngest skater. Malkin also participated in the IIHF World Hockey Championships, where he led the Russians with 9 points.

In 2006, Malkin made his NHL debut with the Pittsburgh Penguins, although it was delayed due to a shoulder injury sustained in the preseason. Malkin went on to score in his first six games, the first to do so since 1917. He would finish with 85 points and garner the Calder Memorial Trophy, awarded to the Rookie of the Year. In the 2007-08 season, Malkin carried the Penguins when fellow superstar Sidney Crosby went down with an ankle injury. He finished with 106 points, second only to Alexander Ovechkin. He is currently a nominee for the Hart Trophy (league MVP).