Marian Hossa is not the only one who'll receive a huge standing ovation tonight

Thirty-six year old Evgeni Malkin will play in his 1000th game, joining his buddy Sidney Crosby in that elite club. Their 3rd musketeer, defenseman Krist Letang, will most likely join them later this season, as he is currently at 958 games, himself.

The «Russian Bear» as he is occasionally known, was picked by the Penguins in 2004, 2nd, after the Washington Capitals chose another Russian, first. Geno played 2 more seasons in Russia, before joining his team in Pittsburgh for the 2006-07 season. Penguins fans knew they had a keeper when he scored in his first NHL game, against one of the best goaltenders in history, Hall of Famer Martin Brodeur. Continuing in that vein, Malkin set a modern-day NHL record by scoring at least one goal in the first six games of his career. The last time that was done was in the league's inaugural season (1917-18) by players Joe Malone, Newsy Lalonde, and Cy Denneny.

In his illustrious career, thus far, Geno has been awarded the Art Ross trophy, twice, the Ted Lindsay award, the Hart Memorial Trophy, The Con Smythe Trophy, the Calder Memorial Trophy, and of course, he is a 3 time Stanley Cup champion, as well.

Although it took a little more time than fans (and probably management) would have liked for this last contract to be signed, it's truly impossible to imagine him playing anywhere else. The entire city of Pittsburgh, as well fans all over the world, and of course, his closest friends, are grateful to have him here to stay.