Russian star reaches NHL milestone

Evgeni Malkin achieved the feat with the Pittsburgh Penguins on Sunday

Evgeni Malkin played his 1,000th NHL game on Sunday night as the Russian forward helped the Pittsburgh Penguins to a 5-3 victory at the Chicago Blackhawks.

Malkin, 36, marked the occasion with a goal as he became the second player to reach the milestone exclusively in a Penguins jersey, alongside teammate Sidney Crosby.

The goal was Malkin’s 452nd in his NHL career, and he has recorded at least one point in 71% of the games he has played – matching his jersey number.

Before the game at the United Center in Chicago, Malkin’s six-year-old son Nikita was a surprise guest in the Penguins’ locker room as he read out the team lineup.

Afterwards, Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan paid tribute to the man nicknamed ‘Geno’.

“I know it was a special night for him. His family was here to celebrate it with him, which was terrific,” said Sullivan.

“And the fact that we could come out in the win column, I think it just makes the experience that much more memorable. for sure.”

The Blackhawks also marked the occasion with a congratulatory message for Malkin on the videoboard during the first TV timeout of the game.

1000 for Geno!

Evgeni Malkin joins Sidney Crosby as the only other player to suit up in 1000 games in a @penguins jersey!