Welcome to NHL Rumours! As the Stanley Cup Final nears its conclusion, we could also be witnessing the close of a chapter in Pittsburgh. Today’s focus is on the future of Evgeni Malkin with the Penguins.
NHL Rumours
Malkin’s Future in Pittsburgh
Analysis: This seems to be a “necessary evil” for the rebuilding Penguins. While it’s certainly not a popular move, it supports the team’s long-term plans. At 38 (soon to be 39), Malkin no longer aligns with what the Penguins need moving forward. As new talent and staff come in, the organization is clearly moving on from those who no longer match their direction—and Malkin appears to be among them.
The Malkin Era
Evgeni Malkin was selected second overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2004 NHL Draft. He made an immediate impact during the 2006-07 season, netting 33 goals and earning the Calder Trophy as the league’s top rookie.
Eighteen years later, Malkin’s legacy in Pittsburgh remains remarkable. Over 1,213 career games, he has tallied 514 goals and 832 assists, totaling 1,346 points. In 2019, he became just the fifth Russian-born player to surpass the 1,000-point milestone.
Malkin’s most dominant season came in 2011-12, when he stepped up during Sidney Crosby’s absence by scoring 50 goals and finishing with 109 points. His efforts earned him the Hart Trophy as the NHL’s Most Valuable Player.
He has hoisted the Stanley Cup three times with the Penguins, including consecutive championships in 2016 and 2017. In 2009, Malkin was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the postseason’s MVP.
With his career accomplishments, Malkin is undoubtedly destined for first-ballot induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Malkin’s Future
Josh Yohe describes how Malkin is fully embracing the upcoming season with the Penguins, staying focused solely on the 2025-26 campaign and how he can contribute to the only NHL team he’s ever played for.
While it’s difficult to picture Malkin in another team’s jersey, continuing his career in the NHL may require that change. Alternatively, the Russian veteran could choose to return home and finish his career playing in a league there.
Farewell in Pittsburgh
The Penguins will almost certainly organize farewell celebrations for one of their greatest players. Since the upcoming season’s schedule hasn’t been announced yet, it’s still uncertain how these events will be arranged.
If you’re a Malkin fan, make sure to catch him in action this season—it might be his final one. Additionally, if you enjoy watching the Crosby-Malkin partnership, you won’t want to miss seeing them on the ice together.
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