Evgeni Malkin Reflects on the Future in the NHL
Evgeni Malkin, the Pittsburgh Penguins star, has expressed his uncertainty about whether season number 20 in the NHL will be the last of his career. The veteran player has made it clear that he has no intention of hanging up his skates at the moment.Malkin emphasized the importance of the preseason for the team and for himself, highlighting the arrival of a new coach and some teammates. Despite the recent problems of the Penguins, who have been three consecutive years without reaching the postseason, Malkin maintains his enthusiasm. The team, under the direction of general manager Kyle Dubas and coach Dan Muse, seeks to rejuvenate its roster, which could affect the future of Malkin, who has seen his performance decline in the last two years. In the 2024-25 season, Malkin recorded 16 goals and 50 points in 68 games, his lowest production in a nearly complete season. However, the player wishes to continue his commitment to the Penguins, the team with which he has won three Stanley Cups alongside Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang, teammates with whom he hopes to continue playing.I’m still hungry. I’m happy to be here this year. It depends on how the season goes. If we play great, I play great, I feel confident and show my game, why not one more?
Evgeni Malkin
Malkin’s situation could be clarified in the coming months, as Dubas plans to discuss a possible extension with the player around the Olympic break in February. Malkin believes there is time to assess the situation, focusing on improving every day and helping the team overcome the streak without playoffs. Faced with the possibility of being traded, Malkin showed mixed feelings, acknowledging the benefits this has brought to other players, but without confirming if it is something he is considering. Malkin is focused on Pittsburgh regaining its level this season. With a new coach and Crosby’s leadership, Malkin’s performance will be crucial for the Penguins to end their playoff drought. If not, this could be Malkin’s last season in Pittsburgh or in the NHL. Malkin does not rule out the possibility of playing a season in Russia once his career in North America is over, but he hopes that won’t happen soon.I hope to stay here like Sid and Tanger, and be Penguins forever, for sure. I hope we play great, and I hope everything is perfect. Perfect me too. I want to stay here, for sure.
Evgeni Malkin
If it’s my last year here, I’ve played here for 20 years. That’s not bad either, you know? I’m happy to be a Penguin, I’m happy to win three Stanley Cups here. If I have the opportunity to play next year, I will.
Evgeni Malkin
