What was Malkin's PPG in 11/12 and in 07/08 when Crosby was out of the lineup?
I agree it’d likely be higher if Crosby never existed but at the same time, he was still receiving first line type of ice time throughout his career in a 1B role. As far as linemates, Crosby had Kunitz, Dupuis and Guentzel at even strength, Malkin had Talbot, Neal and Hornqvist. Advantage Crosby but also the tougher matchups (like number one defenseman and matchup center types). That’s not a “nothing”. Obviously playing with each other, the powerplay was always outstanding.
I think if we are getting into things like linemate squabbling we are far beyond the point of “it’s nowhere close”. For how “great” Kucherov’s linemates are, look at the gap between him and his teammates (who are also powerplay 1 players) in production this season.