Penguins C Malkin nearing return from knee injury

Mike Sullivan Pittsburgh Penguinss coach Mike Sullivan gives instruction to Sidney Crosby (87) during the first period of the team's NHL hockey game against the St. Louis Blues in Pittsburgh, Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022. The Penguins won 5-3. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

By Associated Press

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Pittsburgh center Evgeni Malkin could make his season debut when the Penguins face the Anaheim Ducks.

Coach Mike Sullivan says he anticipates the four-time All-Star and 2012 Hart Trophy winner will be a “game-time” decision as Pittsburgh continues its West Coast swing.

The 35-year-old Malkin hasn’t played since undergoing right knee surgery in June. Malkin has been skating with his teammates for several weeks and was cleared to start taking contact recently.

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