Penguins Sign 2004 First Round Pick Evgeni Malkin

The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed Evgeni Malkin, the second overall selection in the 2004 Entry Draft, it was announced today by General Manager Ray Shero.

Malkin, 20, finished third in the Russian Super League in scoring during the 2005-06 season, recording 47 points (21+26) in 46 games with Metallurg Magnitogorsk. Malkin led the league in plus/minus (+28), ranked second in goals and ranked third in assists. He added 15 points (5+10) and 42 penalty minutes in 11 Russian Super League playoff games.

Malkin starred in international competition as well during the 2005-06 season. He was the second leading scorer at the World Junior Championships, recording 10 points (4+6) in six games and was named the tournament's top forward and most valuable player, captaining Russia to a second place finish.

At age 19, Malkin was the youngest player on Russia's entry in the 2006 Winter Olympics, tying for second on the team with Alex Kovalev in scoring by recording six points (2+4) in seven games.

PeNS E-News Service

************************************** Tuesday, September 5, 2006 **************************************