Pens' Malkin feels in crisis, admits the issue is in his head

The Pittsburgh Penguins started the month of January on a tear, but things have taken a third as the team is riding a two-game losing streak, which is taking place as the Pens are travelling across Western California and Arizona. They face the Coyotes tonight in the desert and star forward Evgeni Malkin is hoping to find a way out of his funk. 

The Russian sniper has admitted that he finds himself in a crisis of confidence in an interview with Sam Kasan of the team's official website. Malkin tried on different skates and sticks and gear to break out of his slump, but claims that the problems are all in his head. 

"That's not the problem. The problem is only in my head," he said pointing to his cranium. "I know that. My gear is fine. When you're not confident you change everything, gloves, sticks, skates."

The Penguins are trying to win the Stanley Cup for the third time in four years, however, they will need everyone's help and production and as of now, Malkin knows he is not contributing enough despite a recent six-game scoring streak where he compiled 10 points, and through the opening 46 games of the season he has 50 points.

He however knows his game needs to get stronger on both ends of the ice; he finished with a -3 in each of the last two games and has been careless with the puck in front of opponents. 

"Not happy with the last two games. Not my best games," he said. "I'm a little bit frustrated right now. It's tough. I'll keep going to work, try to play better, maybe simplify."

"We watched video today with coach. I see my mistakes," Malkin said. "I want to play better for sure. 

"No turnovers in the neutral zone. Last game I tried to beat 1-on-1 against two guys. It doesn't work right now. You need to be simple. Maybe chip puck into the offensive zone and play simple. Score a couple goals and the confidence is back." 

That's what Malkin means by the problem is in his head: he needs to feel the confidence, play with the attitude he has always had to ensure his Penguins are a strong contender. 

"It's a tough year for me," Malkin said. "I play up and down. One game good and one not. I need to play more good ones before the break." 

Up, Malkin. You can do it.