Evgeni Malkin isn’t ready to hang up the skates just yet - and if he has it his way, he’ll be back in a Penguins sweater next season.
As the 2025-26 campaign continues to unfold, one of the biggest questions surrounding the Pittsburgh Penguins has been the future of their longtime star center. At 39 years old, Malkin entered the season with uncertainty about what comes next. But now, it seems the picture is starting to come into focus.
According to reports, Malkin’s agent is expected to meet with Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas during the upcoming Olympic break. The goal? To explore a one-year contract extension that would keep the future Hall of Famer in Pittsburgh for at least one more season.
Here’s what we know: Malkin is open to staying - and not just in theory. He’s reportedly willing to take a pay cut from his current $6.1 million salary to make it happen.
More importantly, he has no interest in playing anywhere else. For Malkin, it’s Pittsburgh or nothing.
That kind of loyalty isn’t just rare - it’s telling. Malkin understands the reality: this could be his final season. But he’s not quite ready to walk away, and based on his production, he’s still got something left in the tank.
Through 33 games this season, Malkin has racked up 10 goals and 25 assists, good for 35 points. That’s more than a point-per-game pace from a player who’s battled injuries and still finds ways to make a difference every time he hits the ice. It’s a reminder of just how impactful he remains, even as he pushes 40.
The idea of bringing him back on a one-year deal - potentially in the $5 million range - makes sense for both sides. For the Penguins, it’s a chance to keep a franchise legend in the fold while maintaining financial flexibility. For Malkin, it’s an opportunity to continue competing at the highest level with the only NHL team he’s ever known.
The conversation between Malkin’s camp and Dubas next month will be one to watch. But for now, one thing is clear: Evgeni Malkin isn’t ready to say goodbye. And if the Penguins feel the same, we could be looking at one more chapter in a remarkable career that’s already cemented its place in Pittsburgh hockey history.