NHL Rumors: 3 Teams Interested in Signing Evgeni Malkin

Evgeni Malkin appears set for a divorce with the Pittsburgh Penguins as the contract talks could not be going worse. They are actually starting to get personal now as Malkin has reached out to teammates asking why the team doesn't want him to return. If Malkin leaves Pittsburgh, there's going to be three teams with serious interest in signing the veteran center July 13:

Seattle Kraken

Regardless of Malkin's age, (he'll be 36 at the end of the month), the Kraken are looking to be aggressive this summer and wants to add offense. It's likely they would go three or four years with the Penguins legend and considering their cap space, should be able to offer just as much annually as some of the other interested teams. The Kraken's leading scorer last season was Jared McCann with 50 points, look for management to do whatever they can to add offense and it could all start with Malkin.

Carolina Hurricanes

The Hurricanes have lots of cap space and a need at second-line center so Malkin is becoming a prime target. Carolina is prioritizing a game-changing forward this summer and Malkin still has lots in the tank to meet expectations. He recorded 42 points in 41 games last season, as health has become the only question mark. If Malkin can stay healthy and be committed to the cause, look for him to flourish with the Hurricanes, a team that's becoming the most logical option once the market opens on July 13.

Dallas Stars

The Stars should be considered a wild card in the Malkin sweepstakes as they are looking to add a top-six forward to play alongside Tyler Seguin and Jamie Benn. Malkin with those two would be a fun line to watch as the Stars have had some good luck adding veteran forwards of late. Joe Pavelski continues to shine and perhaps the team can double down on another vet. Look for Dallas to be in the Malkin running this summer.

Photo credit:Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports