Steve: Dave, How is Malkin progressing from his injury? Any chance he might be ready for the first round?
Dave Molinari: Evgeni Malkin hasn't spoken with reporters since he appeared to injure his right arm/wrist/hand in an awkward collision with Columbus defenseman Dalton Prout March 11, and the team hasn't given any meaningful update on his recovery, so it's hard to say just when he might return. However, considering that the initial word was that he would miss 6-8 weeks, the chances of him returning for the start of the playoffs are nominal, at very best.