Pens Forward Evgeni Malkin Practices Monday; Hopes To Play Wednesday

March 28, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin (71) handles the puck against the Winnipeg Jets during the second period at the CONSOL Energy Center. The Pittsburgh Penguins won 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Pittsburgh Penguins’ forward Evgeni Malkin practiced Monday after missing last Saturday’s game against the Florida Panthers due to a re-aggravation of his recent upper-body injury – according to Michelle Crechiolo of the Pens’ website.

And since the Pens have the next couple days off, Malkin hopes to return for Wednesday’s game against the Montreal Canadiens – per Crechiolo:

"“We have a couple days off.  I have a little bit of an injury, but we still have time before next game. I skated a little bit extra today and I will skate (Tuesday) with the team. Maybe on a line and I hope to play.”"

Although Malkin has been able to play, the injury is clearly still bothering him, as he only has five points (3G, 2A) in the seven contests since originally returning March 28th.

There is a chance the Russian superstar could play Wednesday, but look for the Pens to treat this ailment with extra caution – similar to how they worked Letang back in.

With the playoffs on the horizon, there’s no rush.