Evgeni Malkin has a deep connection to his hometown team, Metallurg Magnitogorsk, where he played for three seasons from 2003 to 2006 and returned during the NHL lockout in 2012-13.

Mired in a difficult choice, Pittsburgh Penguins star Evgeni Malkin voiced his prediction in the winner between Sidney Crosby's Team Canada meeting with Mike Sullivan's Team USA.

The break did Evgeni Malkin a lot of good, as he is good to go for Saturday’s matchup with Washington after missing six straight contests with a lower-body injury going into the time off. “Ready to play,

“I know, Sid and 'Sully,' it's hard to choose,” Malkin said Wednesday. Understandable. Crosby and Malkin resemble brothers. Sullivan has said so, noting their bickering is reminiscent of his children. The pair have won the Stanley Cup three times (2009, 2016, 2017). Sullivan was their coach for the past two.

Not enough wins. Not much hope for this season. But still a lot to discuss. Refreshing Penguins notes are the lifeblood of Pittsburgh hockey! First shot, first goal! • Sidney Crosby had a goal and two assists in Sunday’s 6-5 overtime loss against visiting Toronto.

Evgeni Malkin scored his second goal at 1:03 of overtime and the Pittsburgh Penguins rallied to beat the Philadelphia Flyers 5-4.