The legendary trio stays intact as Pittsburgh secures its iconic playmaker. Despite age and injury, Malkin’s production remains vital for a veteran core chasing one last deep run.
The Pittsburgh Penguins answered their biggest offseason question Tuesday, re-signing Evgeni Malkin to a one-year, $5.5-million extension.
It keeps him in Pittsburgh for a 21st season and comes with a full no-movement clause. The deal also includes performance bonuses that can push it up to $9 million, with extra money tied to games played, making the playoffs, and each round the team wins.
There was a lot of talk around his future over the past year, mostly because his contract was expiring and Pittsburgh has been leaning more toward a younger group. Malkin didn’t really let it become a storyline for long.
Even at 39, and dealing with a shoulder issue that limited him to 56 games, he still finished with 19 goals and 61 points. Not the same player he once was, but still productive enough to matter every night.
Kyle Dubas has also made it clear he doesn’t view him as blocking younger players in any major way. It’s more about what he still gives them on the ice and in the room. It also keeps the legendary trip together for another season. Malkin, Sidney Crosby, and Kris Letang are combining for the running of one of the longest-running cores in the sport.
Stay updated with the most interesting International Hockey stories, analysis, breaking news, and more!
Tap the star to add us to your favourites on Google News and never miss a story.
Let us know what you think below.
For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive, and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.