Evgeni Malkin Reflects on His NHL Future
The veteran ice hockey player, Evgeni Malkin, has expressed his uncertainty about whether season number 20 in the NHL will be the last of his career, both with the Pittsburgh Penguins and in the league. Malkin, however, has made it clear that he is not ready to hang up his skates.Despite the Penguins’ recent challenges, who have gone three consecutive years without qualifying for the postseason, Malkin remains enthusiastic. The organization, under the direction of general manager Kyle Dubas and coach Dan Muse, seeks to rejuvenate the team, which could affect the future of Malkin, 39, whose performance has declined in the last two seasons. In the 2024-25 season, Malkin recorded 16 goals and 50 points in 68 games, his lowest production in a nearly complete season. Pittsburgh’s priority is to highlight its young and promising players. Malkin, who has won three Stanley Cups with the Penguins alongside Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang, wants to continue his commitment to the team. “I hope to stay here like Sid and Tanger, and be a Penguin forever, for sure,” Malkin stated when asked about the possibility of playing for another team. “I hope we play well and that everything goes perfectly. Perfect for me too. I want to stay here, for sure.” Malkin’s situation in Pittsburgh could be clarified in the coming months. Dubas plans to discuss a possible extension with Malkin around the NHL’s Olympic break in February. So far, there have been no other conversations about it and Malkin is willing to wait. Malkin also addressed the possibility of waiving his no-trade clause to facilitate a trade. “We see a story like Brad Marchand’s, and it looks good. But, if a team trades you and you don’t win the Cup, it’s also a bit strange. We’ll see what happens in the future. But, of course, everyone wants to try to play in the playoffs and maybe have one more chance at the Cup. It’s a great story when you see it on television, but I don’t know how I would feel if the team wanted to trade me.” Malkin emphasized his desire for Pittsburgh to regain its level this year. With Dan Muse replacing Mike Sullivan and Crosby leading the team, the hope is that Malkin can regain his best form and contribute to the team’s success. If Malkin manages to stand out, he could help Pittsburgh end its playoff drought. Otherwise, this could be his last season with the Penguins, or even in the NHL. Malkin has not ruled out the possibility of playing in Russia when his North American career comes to an end. Malkin reflected on his career: “If it’s my last year here, I’ve played here for 20 years. That’s not bad either, you know? I’m glad to be a Penguin, I’m glad to win three Stanley Cups here. If I have the opportunity to play next year, I will.”I’m still hungry. I’m happy to be here this year. It depends on how the season goes. If we play well, I play well, I feel confident and show my game, why not one more? The preseason is huge for the team and for me. We have a new coach and a couple of new teammates. It’s exciting to see what happens this year.
Evgeni Malkin
