Evgeni Malkin close to returning

Story byDan KingerskiTue, January 6, 2026 at 8:43 PM UTC·1 min readThis article originally appeared onPGHHockeyNOW. com. Pittsburgh Penguins star center Evgeni Malkin was a full participant at Penguins practice Tuesday, and it looks like all systems are go. Malkin had the black full-contact jersey and participated in all of the drills, including a two-on-two scrimmage. The practice was a recovery day, and the staff kept many of the lineup regulars off the ice, so there was some question regarding Malkin’s status. However, coach Dan Muse confirmed Malkin was a full participant. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement“Yeah, it’s it was a good step in the right direction, having him out there full-go practice,” said Muse.