The Pittsburgh Penguins entered the season determined to prove their championship window hasn’t closed. Through 11 games, they’ve delivered exactly that message. Sidney Crosby and his teammates have surged to second place in the Metropolitan Division with a 7-2-2 record, trailing only New Jersey.
While the captain fires on all cylinders, one of his longtime linemates recently opened up about what could be his final season in Pittsburgh and his desire for one more playoff run with the core that won three Stanley Cups.
Evgeni Malkin Reflects on Potential Final Season With the Penguins
Pittsburgh is playing with an urgency not seen in years. Crosby has been brilliant with 15 points through 11 games, but he’s not the only veteran thriving. Longtime center Evgeni Malkin leads the franchise with 16 points, rediscovering the form that made him a perennial All-Star.
However, Malkin’s strong start hasn’t quieted speculation about his future. Reports suggest GM Kyle Dubas is exploring a roster retool, with every veteran except Crosby potentially available if it means acquiring younger assets.
Entering the final year of his four-year contract, Malkin acknowledged this could be his last season in Pittsburgh. Recently, he reflected on his nearly two-decade tenure with the Penguins and what he hopes to accomplish before the end.
“I think a lot about this the whole summer, almost,” Malkin said. He believes last season’s team lacked the emotional investment needed to reach the playoffs. This year, he’s taken a different approach. This marks his 20th season alongside Crosby and Kris Letang.
“I understand it’s maybe last year, maybe two more years. I need to just play fun,” Malkin explained. “Because I play my whole life, why not just two more years? It’s so much better when the team wins.” A fourth Stanley Cup would make any farewell memorable.
Malkin expressed disappointment over last season’s playoff miss, calling it the worst feeling of his career. However, he remains optimistic that the core can recapture its championship form.
“If I, Sid, and Tanger play together, play one time in playoffs, like, one more time, who knows if we win or lose, just play together for one more playoffs run – I love this,” Malkin said. With the season still young, predicting Pittsburgh’s trajectory remains impossible.
Yet Malkin maintains a positive outlook focused on the present rather than the future. “I think just start the first game. Just play to have fun, try to help the young guys a little bit, because you don’t know how many years are left,” he noted.
Rather than obsessing over results, Malkin is prioritizing quality time with teammates. “I talk to guys who are retired; they still miss hockey. They still remember good memories. I can retire now, but I’m still feeling like I can play.”
Malkin emphasized he still has hunger for goals and winning. Whether this season marks his final chapter in Pittsburgh or not, he’s determined to make it count while helping the next generation succeed.
