Evgeni Malkin could walk out on the last year of his Penguins' contract

According to a recent report, the 2024-25 season might mark the end of Evgeni Malkin's illustrious career in the National Hockey League. Mark Madden of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review suggested on his "Madden Monday" radio show that the longtime Pittsburgh Penguins forward could be planning to leave the NHL and return to Russia after the upcoming season.

During a discussion about Sidney Crosby and his anticipated contract extension, Madden revealed surprising news regarding Malkin's future with the Penguins.

This revelation comes as a shock to many, given Malkin's previous statements about his career plans. Before the start of the 2023-24 season, Malkin told NHL.com's Wes Crosby that he intended to play three more seasons in the NHL, spanning 2023-24, 2024-25, and 2025-26, before reaching unrestricted free agency. If Madden's source is accurate, it raises questions about why Malkin would choose to forgo the final year of his contract, which carries a substantial cap hit of $6.1 million, to return to Russia, presumably to play in the KHL.

Malkin has been a cornerstone of the Pittsburgh Penguins since he was drafted second overall in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. Over his career, he has been instrumental in the team's success, contributing to three Stanley Cup victories and earning numerous individual accolades, including the Hart Trophy as league MVP in 2012 and the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2009. His partnership with Sidney Crosby has been a defining feature of the Penguins' success over the past two decades.

If Malkin does decide to return to Russia, it would signify the end of an era for the Penguins. His departure would leave a significant void in the team's lineup, both in terms of skill and leadership. The Penguins are already facing challenges as they aim to avoid missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the third consecutive year, a situation they haven't experienced since the early 2000s.

Malkin's potential exit could have implications for Sidney Crosby as well. The two have shared a strong bond on and off the ice, and Malkin's departure might influence Crosby's future decisions regarding his own career and tenure with the Penguins.

As the 2024-25 season approaches, all eyes will be on Malkin and the Penguins as they navigate these uncertainties. The season will be pivotal for Malkin, who will aim to leave a lasting legacy in Pittsburgh, whether it marks the end of his NHL career or the final chapter before a new journey in the KHL.

The hockey world will be closely watching Malkin's performance and any further developments regarding his future plans. His decision could have a significant impact on the Penguins' roster strategy and the team's outlook in the coming years.

For now, Penguins fans and NHL enthusiasts will eagerly anticipate how this story unfolds, as one of the league's most iconic players contemplates the next steps in his storied career.

Source: Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
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