Pittsburgh Penguins star Evgeni Malkin has fallen victim to a home burglary. The 38-year-old’s home was broken into on the day the Penguins were playing the Ottawa Senators, with his three Stanley Cup rings and other valuables stolen. Malkin was not playing due to an upper-body injury, and the Penguins lost the game 5-0.
According to KDKA-TV, Malkin’s home security system was down during the robbery, and his safe was left open. The team has released a statement, stating that they are working with local authorities and respecting Malkin’s request for privacy during this time.
Malkin has played 19 seasons in the NHL, all with the Penguins, and has won numerous awards, including the Hart Trophy in 2011-2012. This is the latest in a string of home break-ins targeting high-profile athletes, which the FBI has warned are linked to South American organized criminal groups.
The groups use social media to track their targets’ schedules and preferences, and have targeted athletes from the NFL, NBA, and NHL. Other recent victims include Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, Minnesota Timberwolves’ Mike Conley Jr., Milwaukee Bucks’ Bobby Portis, and Dallas Mavericks’ Luka Dončić.
The teams have taken steps to increase security measures, including sending memos to teams and coaches about home security tips and measures to be taken.
