NHL Rumors: Will Penguins Trade Evgeni Malkin At The Trade Deadline?

Monday, November 03, 2025 , , , ,
Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin lines up for faceoff during 2025 game.

Evgeni Malkin is making the rumors hard to ignore. 

At 39, he has opened the season among the league leaders in scoring and looks more like a prime playmaker than a player nearing retirement. 

That surge has revived a familiar question for March 6. 

Could the Pittsburgh Penguins explore an Evgeni Malkin trade if the standings turn and a contender comes calling, or will one last run in black and gold win out?

Why a Malkin Trade Could Happen

Multiple insiders have noted both the hot start and the possibility of regression for team and player over an 82 game grind. If Pittsburgh slides out of position, Malkin’s full no move clause becomes the pivot point. 

He has expressed a desire to stay, yet left the door slightly open if management asks and the destination is right. He would be an instant upgrade for any contender seeking center depth, elite vision, and playoff experience, with three Cups and 180 points in 177 postseason games.

General manager Kyle Dubas is expected to revisit future plans with Malkin during the Olympic break. If the Penguins are chasing rather than leading by late February, a rental discussion is plausible. The return would hinge on retained salary and market leverage, but a point per game pace would command real assets.

Top Suitors if an Evgeni Malkin Trade Emerges

The Florida Panthers, of course, make sense on fit and comfort, especially with Aleksander Barkov’s knee recovery timeline and Malkin’s Miami ties. 

The Vegas Golden Knights have a history of deadline aggression and cap gymnastics. North of the border, the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, and Winnipeg Jets could all justify a short term splash for a matchup proof center who elevates a second line and a power play. 

Ultimately, Malkin controls the outcome. If the Penguins contend, he stays. If they fade, one bold green light from No. 71 could swing a playoff race.

Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images 

Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | MLB Rumors