Pens officials not expressing long-term concern

Evgeni Malkin’s right foot/ankle injury has become worse than initially thought as the star winger has now missed seven of eight games.
After the Carolina game when Malkin re-aggravated the injury, Malkin underwent another round of tests, according to a team source.
X-rays again came back negative and Pens officials continue to express zero long-term concern as they tell me the injury is scare tissue related and rest is the only cure.
Malkin indicated today after the morning skate that is hopeful to play on Saturday afternoon against the Atlanta Thrashers.
The Penguins have made it known that they won’t rush Malkin’s return as the center went through his second skate on Wednesday.
He is still struggling a bit with his lateral movement but is inching closer to returning. For the Penguins though it might be in the best interest to keep Malkin out until next week.