Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin scored his 500th career goal against the Buffalo Sabres tonight in Pittsburgh. With this goal, Malkin becomes the 48th player in NHL history to score 500 career goals. This ties him with legendary forward Lanny McDonald for 47th all-time. This incredible achievement reflects Malkin’s elite skill and impact as a franchise forward with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Amazingly he achieved the milestone marker on the same night Sidney Crosby registered career point number 1600. Crosby went onto score the winner in overtime in the game, 6-5 to cap off a memorable night in Penguin lore.
A duo for the ages 💪
Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin are in legendary company 🔥 pic.twitter.com/jOSiDgufUf
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 17, 2024
A Legacy of Consistency and Upcoming Milestones
Malkin’s journey to 500 goals is one of sustained excellence. It has taken the Russian star 19 seasons to reach this mark. Known for his incredible blend of size, skill, and shot, Malkin has been a consistent offensive force since entering the league in 2006. Over the course of his career, Malkin has achieved numerous accolades such as winning the Hart Trophy in 2012, and the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2009 as Playoffs MVP. Malkin also has two Art Ross Trophies for the NHL leader in points to his name. His 500th goal also represents his resilience. Malkin has faced many injuries over the years. His absence is always felt, as a healthy Evgeni Malkin has the ability to completely dominate games.
Upcoming Milestones and The Road Ahead
This milestone places Malkin in an elite group of players who have reached the 500-goal mark in the NHL. The accomplishment represents Malkin’s commitment and sustained production with the Pittsburgh Penguins through 19 seasons. Alongside Sidney Crosby, Malkin has been a cornerstone of three different Stanley Cup runs with the Pittsburgh Penguins. As Malkin continues his career, there are other milestones to look forward to on the horizon. He is fast approaching other all-time greats. He scored 27 goals in each of the last two seasons. Given this level of production again, Malkin would find himself in the company of players like Marian Hossa and Bryan Trottier in the high 30s by the end of the season.
However, as Malkin celebrates his 500th goal, the Pittsburgh Penguins are focused on the road ahead. Led by an older core, the Penguins club is battling to make the playoffs for the first time in three years. Malkin is an important part of this charge, as his contributions on the second line are key to the Penguins’ success. Going forward, Pittsburgh will continue to lean on Malkin to help Crosby lead the offence, hopefully into the playoffs.
Main Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire – USA TODAY Sports
