Evgeni Malkin has made it clear: he's not ready to hang up his skates just yet. The veteran forward, who turns 40 this summer, told reporters that he wants to play in the NHL next season, even if that means leaving the only franchise he's ever known.

"It's not easy for Kyle. Maybe he wants new blood here. I understand it," Malkin said, referring to Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas. "I understand he wants, maybe, new team."

Malkin, who has spent his entire 20-year NHL career in Pittsburgh, didn't mince words about his future. "I want one more year in NHL. I'm not moving back to KHL, play in Russia. Again, if not Pittsburgh, I hope some team." When asked directly if he'd suit up for another NHL club, his answer was a definitive "yes."

This comes after the Penguins were eliminated in Game 6 of their first-round playoff series against the Philadelphia Flyers. Malkin's pending unrestricted free agency has become a major storyline, especially given his enduring bond with teammates Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang.

"I hope we play together one more year," Malkin said, reflecting on the legendary trio's run. "These two, special guys. If not, I had a great twenty years together, never forget."

On the ice, Malkin proved he still has plenty left in the tank. He posted 61 points (19 goals, 42 assists) in a point-per-game season, making a smooth transition from center to wing. His chemistry with Egor Chinakhov was a bright spot, and he's not blocking any top prospects from cracking the lineup.

However, the Penguins face a tough decision. Malkin missed 26 games this season, and at 40 years old, he won't help a roster that's already one of the oldest in the league get any younger. Crosby, Bryan Rust, and Rickard Rakell have all publicly voiced their support for bringing him back, but the final call rests with Dubas.

For now, Malkin is keeping an open mind—and an open market. Whether he returns to Pittsburgh or dons a new jersey next season, one thing is certain: the future Hall of Famer isn't done yet.