Full Breakdown
Penguins Experiment with Line Combinations Featuring Evgeni Malkin
1/8/2026, 8:54:37 PM
New Line Configuration in Practice
The Pittsburgh Penguins are experimenting with their line combinations as they prepare for an upcoming game against the New Jersey Devils. During a recent practice session in Cranberry, 18-year-old rookie Ben Kindel centered a line that included veteran forward Evgeni Malkin on the left wing and Egor Chinakhov on the right wing. This marks a notable shift, as Malkin typically plays as the team's No. 2 center. Coach Dan Muse described the combination as experimental, expressing hope that the players could develop chemistry on the ice. “It was something we wanted to see,” Muse stated, emphasizing the importance of trying new line combinations.
Malkin's Versatility and Experience
Evgeni Malkin, a 39-year-old veteran, has occasionally played as a winger throughout his career, notably during his early years alongside Sidney Crosby. While he expressed a willingness to adapt to different positions, Malkin indicated a preference for playing center, stating, “I love to play center. It’s my position.” His experience and skill set are seen as valuable assets to the Penguins, particularly as they navigate the challenges of the season.
Chinakhov's Admiration for Malkin
Egor Chinakhov, who joined the Penguins in a trade on December 29, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to skate alongside Malkin, whom he admired growing up in Russia. “It’s a privilege to play with him,” Chinakhov remarked, highlighting Malkin's skills on the ice. Currently, Malkin is on injured reserve due to a shoulder injury that has kept him sidelined for the past 15 games, which adds a layer of uncertainty to the line's future.
Current Line Compositions
As of the latest practice, the Penguins' forward lines are structured as follows:
- First Line: Rickard Rakell – Sidney Crosby – Bryan Rust
- Second Line: Evgeni Malkin – Ben Kindel – Egor Chinakhov
- Third Line: Anthony Mantha – Tommy Novak – Justin Brazeau
- Fourth Line: Connor Dewar – Blake Lizotte – Noel Acciari
Additionally, the first power-play unit includes Crosby, Erik Karlsson, Malkin, Rakell, and Rust, while the second unit features Brazeau, Chinakhov, Kindel, Letang, and Mantha.
Criticism & Opposition
While the experimentation with line combinations is aimed at enhancing team performance, some analysts express skepticism about the effectiveness of shifting Malkin to a wing position, especially given his established role as a center. Critics argue that such changes could disrupt team dynamics and affect overall performance.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is a notable gap in information regarding Malkin's recovery timeline from his shoulder injury. While he has been sidelined for 15 games, the specifics of his rehabilitation and potential return to the lineup remain unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Obviously, he’s a very special player,” — Ben Kindel, Penguins Forward
- “It was something we wanted to see,” — Dan Muse, Penguins Coach
- “It’s a privilege to play with him,” — Egor Chinakhov, Penguins Forward
- “I love to play center.” — Evgeni Malkin, Penguins Forward
This ongoing experimentation with line combinations reflects the Penguins' strategic approach as they seek to optimize their roster amid injury challenges and performance fluctuations.
