The Pittsburgh Penguins and Recent Disappointments
The Pittsburgh Penguins have become synonymous with disappointment in recent seasons, with the team failing to clinch a spot in the Stanley Cup playoffs for three consecutive years. This stagnation has weighed heavily on their veteran stars, such as captain Sidney Crosby, defenseman Kris Letang, and the gifted center Evgeni Malkin, the latter of whom has expressed a strong desire to remain with the franchise throughout his career.
Malkin’s Changing Commitment
However, Malkin’s recent comments to NHL.com hint at a shift in his long-standing commitment to the Penguins. Instead of firmly committing to staying in Pittsburgh, the 39-year-old star discussed future possibilities, referencing the trade scenarios of players like Brad Marchand.
If the team trades you and you (don’t) win the Cup, it’s like a little bit weird… But of course, everybody wants to try to play in the playoffs and have maybe one more run to the Cup.
These statements raise questions about his future with the team, suggesting that a departure could be on the horizon if the Penguins continue to struggle this season.
Malkin’s Performance and Future Prospects
In the context of the 2025-26 season, Malkin faces a pivotal moment in his career. His recent performance has not been stellar, recording just 16 goals and 50 points in 68 games during the last season, which are his lowest numbers since debuting in the NHL in 2006, not counting the shortened seasons of 2019-20 and 2020-21. His ice time has also diminished, dropping to an average of 17:47, a significant decline from his career average of 19:34 minutes.
Against the backdrop of a league hungry for skilled second-line centers, Malkin’s potential availability as a trade asset is tantalizing for many teams. With his contract status and desire for playoff contention clear, the Penguins could be incentivized to pursue a deal that would not only clear cap space but also fetch a substantial return.
The Inevitable Transition
As hard as it is for fans to fathom, the possibility of Malkin donning another team’s jersey before his career concludes may allow for a bittersweet but necessary transition for Pittsburgh. While sentimental considerations often tug at the heartstrings of loyal supporters, the reality of the NHL’s rebuilding dynamics suggests that trading an aging, though still talented, player like Malkin may be advantageous for the Penguins’ long-term goals.
Malkin’s ambition to secure one last postseason run while still a Penguin is admirable, yet whether that dream can materialize remains uncertain. For this storied franchise, embracing the inevitability of change may be the best path forward, allowing one of their most iconic players to leave on a high note, potentially with another chance at playoff glory elsewhere. This may ultimately be Malkin’s greatest legacy—a willingness to adapt for the benefit of both his career and the franchise he has long represented.
