Penguins standout Malkin will play in Thursday opener vs. Ducks

After participating in a second straight day of practice Wednesday, Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin (undisclosed injury) says he will play in the team's season opener Thursday vs. the Ducks.

New Pittsburgh coach Mike Johnston concurred, telling reporters there was a "99 percent chance" that Malkin will play.

During his first practice Tuesday, the 2012 MVP looked like his typically powerful self while getting his first hands-on look at Johnston's system.

''It feels great,'' Malkin said Tuesday. ''I need to get in better shape, but I'm glad to be back.''

Malkin made it through the entire hour-long session Tuesday, working through a series of high intensity drills, including skating alongside Sidney Crosby as they worked two-on-two against a pair of defensemen. While he's not quite 100 percent, Malkin impressed Johnston with his conditioning.

''He stayed the whole practice, that was really encouraging,'' Johnston said of Tuesday's workout. ''I thought he looked pretty good for a guy who hasn't been on the ice for a month."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.