Malkin scores on Penguins debut

Evgeni Malkin celebrates his first NHL goal

Evgeni Malkin scored on his NHL debut for Pittsburgh, but the Penguins still went down 2-1 to the New Jersey Devils.

He also hit a post before putting a rebound past goalie Martin Brodeur.

The 20-year-old Russian dislocated his left shoulder in his first pre-season game with Pittsburgh on 20 September, delaying his eagerly-awaited debut.

Seen as the best player outside the NHL, centre Malkin joined Pittsburgh after leaving his Russian club in controversial circumstances.

"I was very worried about tonight's game and that first goal is very important," Malkin said. "In the future, I think it's going to be easier."

The omens are good for Malkin following his bright start for Pittsburgh.

Penguins legend Mario Lemieux also scored for on his NHL debut for the team in 1984 and went on to score 690 goals and 1,723 points.

Brodeur, who is also on his way to the Hall of Fame, made 37 saves en route to his 450th career victory.

He is behind only Ed Belfour (457) and Patrick Roy (551) on the all-time wins list.