PITTSBURGH — In a recent update from the Penguins, it was revealed that center Evgeni Malkin was sidelined for the home match against the Columbus Blue Jackets due to an upper-body injury.

Prior to the game, the team confirmed that Malkin’s condition is being evaluated on a day-to-day basis. While he participated in the morning skate session, he did not take part in the warmup that precedes the game.

This marks a significant moment for the 38-year-old Malkin, as it is the first time he has been unable to play since the 2021-22 season. His absence breaks an impressive streak of 209 straight games, which ranks as the 12th longest in the history of the Penguins.

Earlier this season, Malkin achieved notable milestones, reaching both his 500th career goal and 1,300th career point in the NHL. So far this season, he has scored eight goals and accumulated 32 points across 41 games played.