PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – The Pittsburgh Penguins will be without Evgeni Malkin tonight when they host the Washington Capitals. However, he may not be out for much longer.

Malkin was back on the ice before and during the Penguins’ morning skate on Tuesday. While nothing is confirmed, when asked if he would be back on Friday Malkin was hopeful.

“I hope. I miss hockey. I miss my team and I hope Friday,” Malkin said.

Malkin skated for 30 minutes prior to the morning skate with strength and conditioning coach Mike Kadar.

“I don’t like [to] skate with him,” Malkin said jokingly. “It’s better for me, just better shape, my legs feeling better. Working a little bit on body in the corner,” Malkin said.

Malkin has missed the last five games with an upper-body injury he suffered in Toronto when he was checked into the boards by James van Riemsdyk. Due to the injury, he has been forced to watch his team rather than be on the ice helping them.

“It’s hard to watch of course, but I’m glad team [won the] last five games. [They’re playing] unbelievable right now. It’s easy to watch because I know the team is tough right now,” Malkin said.

With a win tonight, the Penguins would extend their winning streak to 10 games. The puck will drop at 7:30 p.m. and you can read more about the matchup here.

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