The Pittsburgh Penguins are back in the playoffs after a three-year hiatus—a big step forward for a franchise that knows what it takes to win. But to make a deeper run, they'll need to take another leap. And whether Evgeni Malkin will be part of that journey is still anyone's guess—including his own.
The Russian star, set to become a free agent this July, has made it clear he'd love to return for a 21st season in Pittsburgh—almost certainly his last. But Malkin also understands that general manager Kyle Dubas is focused on building a roster built for long-term success. And a future Hall of Fame forward about to turn 40 might not fit into those plans.
"It's not easy for Kyle," Malkin said Friday, less than 48 hours after the Penguins' season ended with a Game 6 loss to rival Philadelphia. "Maybe he wants new blood here. I understand business. I understand he wants maybe new team, see new faces here."
Dubas has been polite but noncommittal when asked about Malkin's future. With over $45 million in salary cap space heading into the offseason, the question isn't whether he can afford to keep Malkin—it's whether he wants to invest in a three-time Stanley Cup champion who, while beloved in Pittsburgh, missed 20 games this season due to injury.
What isn't in doubt is Malkin's desire to keep playing—even if it means leaving the only NHL team he's ever known. After moving from center to wing, he posted 61 points in 56 games and added two goals against the Flyers in the playoffs. His assessment of the season? "Not bad."
"It's a little bit tough," he admitted. "But I feel I can play next year for sure."
Malkin, captain Sidney Crosby, and defenseman Kris Letang just wrapped up their 20th season together—the longest run by any trio in major North American professional sports. Letang is under contract for two more seasons, and Crosby is eligible for a contract extension this summer.
Crosby, the only player in NHL history to average a point per game over his entire career, remains the cornerstone. But whether Malkin will get to lace up alongside him one last time in Pittsburgh is still up in the air. For now, all the Penguins—and their fans—can do is wait.