Evgeni Malkin pokes fun at Sidney Crosby over his love for Italian cuisine post Penguins contract extension

Pittsburgh Penguins fans have reason to cheer as captain Sidney Crosby’s two-year extension ended months of speculation. The veteran signed a team-friendly $17.4 million deal on Monday.

While Sidney Crosby’s teammates are excited about the news, his longtime teammate and friend Evgeni Malkin found the perfect opportunity to poke fun at Crosby.

During a recent photo op, Malkin took a break from the action to roast his friend's love for Italian food.

“Eats Italian all the time,” Malkin mocked.

“Chicken Parmesan. Caesar Salad. Same foods, like all the time,” Malkin joked.

“This guy’s crazy,” Malkin concluded.

Of course, Malkin’s comments are in good fun. The pair have played together for over a decade, winning three Stanley Cups with the Penguins. As such, there is plenty of respect between the superstars.

But when the crew asked Malkin what he likes to eat, the future Hall of Famer replied:

“Not all the time, but I do for sure. I hope we find a good restaurant in New York or LA.”

Perhaps the next episode will feature Sidney Crosby poking fun at Malkin’s love for Japanese food.

No words to describe what Sidney Crosby means to the NHL

Crosby’s contract extension is a boon for his franchise. The CBC quoted Pittsburgh Penguins GM Kyle Dubas as saying the deal is an effort to help the Pens remain competitive “now and in the future.”

Indeed, having Crosby and Malkin in the lineup for three more seasons will help the Penguins chase more titles. However, Dubas stated that Crosby’s extension transcends his role as an NHL player.

The GM added:

"There are no words to properly describe what Sidney Crosby means to the game of hockey, the city of Pittsburgh and the Penguins organization."

Dubas expanded on his comments by saying:

"Sidney is the greatest player of his generation and one of the greatest players in the history of the game. His actions today show why he is one of hockey's greatest winners and leaders."

Dubas concluded his comments by adding:

"Sid is making a tremendous personal sacrifice in an effort to help the Penguins win, both now and in the future, as he has done for his entire career."

Crosby could have gotten more money on the open market. But by taking a pay cut, he ensures the Penguins have the cap flexibility needed to ice a competitive team for the foreseeable future.

With his legendary status already certain, the remaining years of Sidney Crosby's career will only enhance his legacy.