Challenges Faced by Evgeni Malkin: Obstacles and Turning Points

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 26, 2026

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Evgeni Malkin's life and career.

Evgeni Malkin, nicknamed "Geno", is a Russian professional ice hockey centre and alternate captain for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the NHL. He began his career with Metallurg Magnitogorsk before being drafted second overall by the Penguins in 2004. After a transfer dispute, he joined the NHL in 2006. Malkin is considered one of the greatest NHL players of the modern era and a key component of the Penguins' success.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

August 2006: Contract Dispute and Departure from Russia

In August 2006, Evgeni Malkin faced contract issues with Metallurg Magnitogorsk but ultimately left the team's training camp in Helsinki to pursue a career in the NHL.

September 2006: Shoulder Dislocation

In September 2006, Evgeni Malkin dislocated his shoulder in a pre-season game, delaying the start of his NHL season.

October 2006: Antitrust Lawsuit Filed

In October 2006, following his first NHL game, Evgeni Malkin's former Russian hockey club filed an antitrust lawsuit against the NHL and the Penguins.

2006: Delayed NHL Debut

In 2006, an international transfer dispute delayed the start of Evgeni Malkin's NHL career with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

2006: Penguins missed the playoffs

Since 2006, the Penguins missed the playoffs for the first time in the 2022-23 season.

October 2009: Strained Shoulder Injury

On 28 October 2009, Evgeni Malkin suffered a strained shoulder in a game against the Montreal Canadiens, causing him to miss several games.

March 2010: Bruised Foot Injury

On 21 March 2010, Evgeni Malkin suffered a bruised foot during a game against the Carolina Hurricanes, sidelining him for seven more games.

February 2011: Knee Injury

On 4 February 2011, Evgeni Malkin suffered a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee after a collision with Tyler Myers, sidelining him for the remainder of the season.

February 2013: Concussion

On February 22, 2013, Evgeni Malkin suffered a concussion in a game against the Florida Panthers after a hit by Erik Gudbranson.

February 2016: Sustained Lower-Body Injury

On February 4, 2016, Evgeni Malkin sustained a lower-body injury in a game against the Ottawa Senators, causing him to miss the next 10 games.

January 2019: Suffered suspected hand injury

On January 30, 2019, Evgeni Malkin suffered a suspected hand injury in a 4–2 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning.

March 2021: Suffered minor knee injury

On March 16, 2021, Evgeni Malkin suffered a minor knee injury in a 2–1 loss over the Boston Bruins after colliding with Jarred Tinordi.

March 6, 2026: Malkin Suspended for Slashing

On March 6, 2026, Evgeni Malkin was suspended for five games for slashing Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin. The incident occurred during a game the previous day where Malkin received two penalties and a game misconduct, leading to his ejection from the game.