Penguins' Evgeni Malkin diagnosed with concussion

The Pittsburgh Penguins will have to do without the reigning NHL MVP for at least the next few games.

Head coach Dan Bylsma revealed Sunday after his team's 5-3 win over Tampa Bay that sniper Evgeni Malkin has been diagnosed with a concussion.

The Pengs star was forced out of the Penguins' 3-1 win over the Panthers Friday night after being driven into the back boards on a hit by Panthers defender Erik Gudbranson at 15:09 of the third period.

Bylsma said Malkin has suffered short-term memory loss, and will miss at least the next three contests.

"[Malkin has] had no other symptoms," Bylsma told the Penguins' official website. "He's feeling fine and his memory is returning."

Malkin came streaking along the wing, and after contact by Gudbranson, crashed with full speed into the boards and landed back first in an awkward position. He was left lying on the ice, then rose to his knees looking dazed after being attended to by Pittsburgh's trainer, but skated off on his own power.

He will sit out upcoming road games against Florida, Carolina and Montreal.