Evgeni Malkin Reflects on His NHL Future
Evgeni Malkin, the Penguins star, has expressed his uncertainty about whether season number 20 in the NHL will be the last, either with the Pittsburgh Penguins or in the league in general. The veteran player has made it clear that he is not ready to hang up his skates.Malkin emphasized the importance of the preseason, especially with a new coach and teammates. The excitement persists despite Pittsburgh’s recent challenges, which has been three consecutive years without reaching the postseason. The Penguins, under the direction of Kyle Dubas and coach Dan Muse, are looking to rejuvenate the team, which is not great news for Malkin, whose performance has declined in the last two years. In the 2024-25 season, he recorded 16 goals and 50 points in 68 games, his lowest production in an almost complete season. Malkin wishes to continue his commitment to the Penguins, where he has won three Stanley Cups alongside Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang. His wish is to remain in Pittsburgh, sharing the court with his teammates.I’m still hungry. I’m happy to be here this year. It depends on how the season goes [if I stay in Pittsburgh]. If we play great, I play great, I feel confident and show my game, why not one more?
Evgeni Malkin
Malkin’s situation in Pittsburgh could be clarified in the coming months, as Dubas plans to discuss a possible extension in February, during the NHL’s Olympic break. Malkin is patient, aware that the season is long and training camp has just begun. Regarding the possibility of waiving his no-trade clause, Malkin has mixed feelings. While he acknowledges the benefits that other players in similar situations, such as Brad Marchand, have had, he prefers to wait and see what the future holds. His priority is to help Pittsburgh find its way this season, with a new coach and a team led by Crosby. If Malkin can regain his best form and be a key contributor, he could help Pittsburgh break their playoff drought. Otherwise, this could be his last season with the Penguins, or even in the NHL. Malkin has also considered the possibility of playing in Russia at the end of his career in North America. Despite the uncertainty, Malkin is grateful for his time in Pittsburgh. If this were his last season, he would be proud of his 20 years with the Penguins and the three Stanley Cups won.I hope to stay here like Sid and Tanger, and be Penguins forever, for sure. I hope we play great and I hope everything will be 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
