Penguins place Evgeni Malkin on injured reserve

NEW YORK (AP) -- Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin has been placed on injured reserve with a concussion.

The team announced the move Monday, saying it was retroactive to Feb. 22.

The NHL's reigning MVP was diagnosed with a concussion on Sunday, two days after he slammed back-first into the end boards during a win over Florida.

Malkin, whose head snapped back when he hit the boards, initially suffered short-term memory loss, but is improving, coach Dan Bylsma said on Sunday.

The Russian has four goals and 21 points in 18 games.