The unthinkable might be happening in the Steel City. Will Pittsburgh Penguins legend Evgeni Malkin actually test NHL free agency? If you’ve been waiting for a resolution to the looming contract drama, the latest updates suggest we are headed for a tense standoff. According to Josh Yohe of The Athletic, sources close to Malkin’s management team have confirmed they have not yet spoken to Penguins General Manager Kyle Dubas about a contract extension. Right now, Dubas is tied up with end-of-season interviews and closely monitoring the AHL affiliate in the Calder Cup Playoffs.
But the clock is ticking. Malkin’s camp plans to force the issue this week to set up an in-person meeting. With no contract offer currently on the table for the 39-year-old superstar, fans are left wondering: is this the end of an era? Let’s dive into the realities of the Penguins’ salary cap, the divide in the front office, and what Malkin’s next move means for the franchise.
The Disconnect Between Kyle Dubas and Evgeni Malkin
It’s no secret that the business of hockey can be ruthless, even for future Hall of Famers. Reports from last summer indicated that Kyle Dubas had little to no intention of re-signing Evgeni Malkin once his current deal expired. Dubas is tasked with a monumental challenge: untangling an aging roster while trying to keep the team competitive.
However, Malkin threw a wrench into those plans by completely exceeding expectations this past season. He proved he still has gas in the tank. Despite his age, sources indicate Malkin isn’t looking to break the bank; his camp maintains he is not seeking a raise from his current $6.1 million average annual value (AAV). Still, handing over $6+ million to a 39-year-old is a massive risk for a team that desperately needs an injection of youth and speed.
Will Sidney Crosby’s Support Keep Malkin in Pittsburgh?
You cannot discuss the Pittsburgh Penguins without mentioning Sidney Crosby. The team captain has publicly stated he wants Malkin back. The bond between these two icons is legendary, and breaking up the core is something management has historically avoided at all costs.
Opinion is heavily divided in the Pittsburgh media, and frankly, around the league. The sentimental side says you let Malkin retire as a Penguin. The analytical side, the side Dubas relies on, sees that bringing him back likely guarantees another year or two of mediocrity, leaving the team no better than they were this season. Dubas appears highly reluctant to ink this extension. Despite Malkin’s solid year, it would genuinely surprise me if the GM commits to a new contract. The Penguins need a hard reset, and letting Malkin test free agency might be the painful, but necessary, first step.
Evgeni Malkin Career NHL Stats
| Type | GP | G | A | P | +/- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Season | 1269 | 533 | 874 | 1407 | 41 |
| Playoffs | 183 | 69 | 114 | 183 | 6 |
Latest Pittsburgh Penguins News, Hockey Pools, and Live Game Info
Looking for more of the latest Pittsburgh Penguins news? We have you covered from the offseason all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals. Join our NHL Hockey Pool for a chance to win exciting cash prizes and test your hockey knowledge against other die-hard fans. Plus, always know how to watch the Penguins game on TV today right here on our website. Make sure to add nhltraderumor.com to your bookmarks so you never miss a breaking story, and sign up for our newsletter below to get the inside scoop delivered straight to your inbox!
