Pittsburgh Penguins forwards Evgeni Malkin and Nick Bjugstad will be out "longer term" with lower-body injuries, head coach Mike Sullivan told reporters Monday.
Malkin projects to be out longer than Bjugstad, Sullivan added, though his injury is not expected to be season-ending.
The 33-year-old center tripped over his own teammate while skating with the puck Saturday night against the Columbus Blue Jackets. He was then hit awkwardly into the boards while on his knees.
Malkin was eager to bounce back this season after a down year in 2018-19. He's played more than just 70 games once in the last seven campaigns.
Pittsburgh's depth down the middle of the ice will be tested with its second- and third-line centers both shelved. Jared McCann, a natural pivot who's played primarily on the wing since joining the Penguins, will likely shift back to center. Teddy Blueger, who was centering the fourth line, could see an increased role.
The Penguins could also shift Alex Galchenyuk to center, but he's struggled with the defensive responsibilities of the position in the past.
