The Pittsburgh Penguins received a boost after one of their veteran stars returned to the lineup as they make a final push for the playoffs. His performance upon his return has now become a talking point, given how much his presence helped his team dominate, even against the NHL’s best team this season.
This discussion focuses on Evgeni Malkin’s contract situation in Pittsburgh.
Evgeni Malkin Opens Up About Penguins’ Future as Contract Nears End
Malkin returned to the lineup on Monday and helped the Pittsburgh Penguins secure a 7-2 win against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena. The 39-year-old center scored 2 goals and added 1 assist in his first game after serving a five-game suspension.
The suspension came after Malkin raised his stick and struck Rasmus Dahlin during a March 5 game against Buffalo. It was the third suspension of his NHL career. He returned to the lineup and played an important role during the opening period as Pittsburgh built an early lead.
The Penguins scored four times in the first period to take control of the game. It was Malkin who scored first and later added another goal in the second half of the first period. Anthony Mantha and Elmer Soderblom scored the other two goals. Later, the Penguins scored three more to win the game, as Colorado scored only twice.
Malkin’s return also brought attention to his contract status. The veteran center is currently playing in his final year of a four-year contract worth $24.4 million, which carries a $6.1 million cap hit each season. After this deal ends, he could become an unrestricted free agent if he does not receive an extension.
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Speaking with Penguins reporter Josh Yohe, Malkin said he recently spoke with the team about the situation, but that the main discussions will take place later.
“I can’t say anything. We (Malkin and Dubas) talked probably two weeks ago. He told me we would talk this summer. I’m OK with that.”
Malkin made it clear that his focus remains on the final games of the season, not on contract negotiations.
“We have 15 games left, I hope playoffs. I want to just play.”
He also said the team asked whether he wanted to continue playing next season, and his answer was clear.
“He asked if I wanted to play next year. I said yes. He said, ‘Don’t worry, we talk after the season.’ I’m OK (with that).”
Malkin believes he still has more seasons left in the NHL.
“I feel great. I want to play next year, too. Maybe two years. Who knows? Again, it’s just business.”
Despite missing time earlier this season, Malkin has remained productive. He has recorded 50 points in about 47 games, including 15 goals and 35 assists.
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The Penguins have also played several weeks without captain Sidney Crosby, who has been out with a lower-body injury suffered while playing for Canada at the Winter Olympics.
For now, Malkin plans to concentrate on the remaining games while the team waits until the offseason to address his contract situation.
