The NHL has taken a significant step in showcasing hockey greatness with the unveiling of its “Quarter Century” team, honoring 25 standout players who debuted between 2000 and 2010.

Unsurprisingly, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, two pillars of the Pittsburgh Penguins, headlining this elite group. Malkin’s inclusion is particularly satisfying for fans and critics alike, given his previous exclusion from the NHL’s centennial list back in 2017—a snub that launched a sea of “Mr. 101” memes and discussions.

Evgeni Malkin’s journey to recognition has been nothing short of spectacular. With three Stanley Cup victories and a trophy case that includes a Conn Smythe, two Art Ross trophies, and a league MVP title, Malkin’s impact is undeniable.

His tally of 1,346 points makes him the fourth-highest point scorer since the 2000-01 season, trailing only Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, and Joe Thornton.

Sidney Crosby, meanwhile, seems to have firmly planted his flag as one of the game’s greats since the days of Lemieux and Gretzky. His stats over the last 25 years tell a story of consistent dominance: with 602 goals, 1,035 assists, and 1,637 points, Crosby ranks right at the top in virtually every major category among his contemporaries.

His clutch performances are underscored by 93 game-winning goals and 22 overtime goals, highlighting his penchant for delivering when it matters most.

The process of selecting this Quarter-Century Team was thorough, involving input from NHL officials and a league-wide fan vote. Spanning January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2024, it’s a testament to Malkin’s and Crosby’s enduring excellence and pivotal roles in shaping hockey’s modern era.

Malkin, towering at 6-foot-5 and 210 pounds, has been a formidable force since his first skate in the 2006-07 season.

His playoff prowess, with 180 points including 67 goals, ranks just behind Crosby over these prolific years. Malkin’s season performances, hitting the 100-point mark three times and reaching the landmark 50-goal mark in 2011-12, cement his status further.

Both Crosby and Malkin have etched their names in the annals of hockey history as two of the most influential and dynamic players of the modern era, a fitting recognition for their extensive contributions to the sport and the Pittsburgh Penguins’ storied franchise.