Evgeni Malkin Scores 500th Goal, Penguins Make NHL History

Evgeni Malkin is off to a red-hot start this season, making some history for himself and the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The 38-year-old potted his 500th career goal in the Pens’ 6-5 overtime victory over the Buffalo Sabres on Wednesday night. Malkin’s milestone was reached on a dish from his long-time partner in crime Sidney Crosby, marking a special moment between the two. It was a four-point game for Malkin, who added three assists in the game to move to an impressive 11 points thus far.

Malkin shared his thoughts on the milestone after the game, celebrating that the helper came from Crosby after all this time.

“It’s not easy, it’s a long way to score 500, but I’m glad to do it tonight. Finally,” Malkin said, as transcribed by Penguins team reporter Michelle Crechiolo. “Now I’m like, more relaxed, more calm. But for the first time probably, I want to say I’m proud of myself. It’s a great number for me. I’m from a small hometown in Russia, Magnitogorsk, first guy who’s done this and second Russian. I work hard every day, and people probably don’t understand that sometimes it’s not easy for me. But, it’s a great story, Sid pass to me… it’s amazing, I love it. Again, congrats to myself.”

The Malkin goal also left the Penguins making NHL history, as his 500th score made the Penguins the second team to have three 500-goal scorers in team history. He joined Sidney Crosby and Mario Lemieux in that respect, while the Pens joined the Montreal Canadiens.

Pittsburgh will look to win their third straight game on Friday night when they take on the Carolina Hurricanes. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. EST.

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