Pens' Malkin out with shoulder strain

Sports Network | October 29, 2009

Pittsburgh, PA (Sports Network) - Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin will miss two-to-three weeks with a shoulder strain, head coach Dan Bylsma announced Thursday.

"Geno (Malkin) is going to be out of the lineup for a couple of weeks," Bylsma said. "He strained his shoulder about 10 days ago or so. I don't know the exact day. This is precautionary for the player. We're worried about the safety of the shoulder. A couple of weeks of rest and rehab will get that thing healthy so he can get back onto the ice."

Malkin has played in 254 consecutive games since missing the first four contests of his rookie season (2006-07) due to a shoulder injury.

A two-time Hart Trophy finalist, Malkin last season led the league with career-highs in assists (78) and points (113) to capture the Art Ross Trophy. He followed up that effort with a sterling performance in the postseason that resulted in him being awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.

In 12 games this season, Malkin has registered four goals and 14 points, tied with captain Sidney Crosby for the team scoring lead.