Evgeni Malkin Has Concussion-Like Symptoms, Out Until Further Notice
PITTSBURGH (93.7 THE FAN) -- The Pittsburgh Penguins are no strangers to dealing with concussions suffered by star players. Now, they may have to again.
Penguins Head Coach Dan Bylsma says Evgeni Malkin is experiencing concussion-like symptoms and is out until further notice. It's not clear what -- if any-- injury is present, but the coach says the team is following NHL head injury guidelines.
"He's ruled out for tomorrow's game," Bylsma said.
Malkin crashed hard into the boards in the third period of the Penguins' 3-1 win over the Panthers Friday night. He was tangled up with Florida defensemen, Erik Gudbranson before sliding back-first into the end boards.
"You saw the hit, I mean, you saw him go in the boards, so I think in terms of protocol, and NHL protocol, we're following that," Bylsma said. "And continue to see how he feels and evaluate even further."
Malkin stayed down on the ice for a brief period of time before skating off under his own power. He did not return to the game.
Teammate Marc-Andre Fleury said that Malkin's absence will be a noticeable loss.
Listen to Fleury on 93-7 The Fan:
"Yeah that's tough, you know, I think he's definitely one of our key guys and one of our leaders," he said. "Every time you lose a guy like that, it's a big hole to fill. And hopefully it's nothing too serious so he can get back on track here soon."
ROOT Sports Analyst Jay Caufield also talked to Bob Pompeani on the Fan Saturday morning to discuss the injury.
In the cut below, he tells Bob that he does not expect Malkin to return to the Penguins lineup any time soon:
RELATED LINKS:
Malkin undergoing tests after slamming into boards (2/23/13)
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