Evgeni Malkin continues to prove he belongs in the "best player in hockey" conversation.
The Pittsburgh Penguins center recorded the 11th hat trick of his career in Monday's game against Washington, putting himself in sole possession of second in points among all NHL players this season behind only Connor McDavid.
The second goal in particular - at the 30-second mark in the video below - displayed the kind of skill he possesses, and resulted in the end of Braden Holtby's night.
All three goals were scored in a frenetic second period against Pittsburgh, and in short order at that.
3 goals for Malkin in a 10:51 span. This is simply incredible -SK
— Pens Inside Scoop (@PensInsideScoop) January 17, 2017
It was the first time he's scored three goals in a period other than the last.
3rd time in Evgeni Malkin's career that he's scored 3 goals in a period. But this is the first time he's done it without an empty-netter.
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) January 17, 2017
The hat trick gives Malkin 21 goals on the season and eight in his past eight games.
(Video courtesy: NHL.com)
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