Evgeni Malkin Achieves 500 Career Goals
Evgeni Malkin continues to defy age with an impressive start to the 2024-25 NHL season. In a thrilling 6-5 overtime win against the Buffalo Sabres, Malkin scored his 500th career goal, marking a significant milestone. In a dramatic play during the third period, he capitalized on a rebound after his initial shot was saved by Sabres goaltender Ukko Pekka-Luukkonen. This achievement places Malkin alongside Penguins legends Mario Lemieux and Sidney Crosby as one of only three players in franchise history to reach this mark.
Additionally, Malkin assisted on Crosby’s game-winning goal, making it a night full of achievements. At 20 years and 314 days old, he also became the youngest center to score 500 goals and only the eighth player from outside North America to do so.
As of now, Malkin leads the NHL with 11 points through the first five games, a feat not accomplished by a Penguins player since Lemieux in the 2002-03 season. His resurgence is vital for the Penguins as they aim for a playoff push this year.
Sam Reinhart’s Dominance
Florida Panthers forward Sam Reinhart is off to a stellar start, continuing his impressive scoring from last season. Reinhart, who had a career-high 59 goals last year, has already tallied nine points (four goals and five assists) through six games, placing him tied for third in the league.
His standout performance came in a 4-3 win against the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he contributed a goal and two assists. Reinhart’s timely scoring, especially with key players like Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk sidelined, is crucial for the Panthers as they navigate early season challenges.
Rasmus Andersson’s Early Impact
Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson has emerged as a top performer early in the season. His offensive contributions have been significant, with six points in just four games, making him a critical part of Calgary’s success. His best performance so far came in a 4-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers, where he scored a goal and added two assists.
Andersson’s ability to lead the Flames’ defense and contribute offensively positions him among the top defensemen in the league, trailing only Cale Makar in points.
Alexandar Georgiev’s Struggles
On the flip side, Colorado Avalanche goaltender Alexandar Georgiev has had a rough start to the season. With an 0-4-0 record, a 5.79 goals-against average, and an .800 save percentage, Georgiev has been pulled in two games and has allowed at least four goals in three outings. His struggles are concerning for an Avalanche team that has high expectations for a Stanley Cup run this season.
Despite his previous success with a 3.02 goals-against average last year, Georgiev’s early-season form raises questions as the Avalanche remain one of only three winless teams in the league.
Conclusion
As the NHL season progresses, players like Malkin, Reinhart, and Andersson are making headlines with their impressive performances, while Georgiev’s struggles remind us that the season is a marathon, not a sprint. The early weeks set the tone for what promises to be an exciting and competitive season ahead.