The Pittsburgh Penguins forward said he is looking forward to February’s clashes on Canadian ice.

“Of course, there is some excitement. I look forward to the day when the coaching staff will name the final squad. I am very seriously preparing for this tournament and the fact that the Olympics will be held in Canada adds extra emotions,” he said.

The 23-year-old also revealed the attacking trio of his dreams, with himself being a center forward.

“I would love to play together with Ilya Kovalchuk and Alexey Kovalev. I am very impressed with their style. They are upscale, skilful hockey players. Once I was playing with Kovalev at the All-Stars Match and it was a great pleasure. Kovalchuk was my partner at the World Cup. In general, if we talk about a dream team, then Datsyuk would also make a strong partner,” the player said.

Russia have won the last two World Championships, beating Canada in the finals both times, but Malkin was not part of either of those squads.

His biggest achievements with the national team so far are two bronze medals at the World Championships and a 4th pace finish at Turin Olympics in 2006.