Evgeni Malkin Could Be Entering Final Game for Penguins

The Pittsburgh Penguins have their backs against the wall down 3-0 to the Philadelphia Flyers, and entering Game 4 on Saturday, legend Evgeni Malkin is well aware what's at stake.

Malkin's in the final season of his current contract, and with a new sense of direction from Kyle Dubas and company in the front office, and a pending new owner, there's a very good chance the team walks away from Malkin at season's end.

Malkin, 39, battled some injury troubles this season, appearing in just 56 games, however, was very productive when he was available, posting 19 goals, and 42 assists for 61 points. Over a point a game at his age is certainly very impressive, but he knows his future is out of his control.

I hope it's not over....I want to be here. I want o be part of the team next year, too, and I want to be retired in Pittsburgh. But it's not my choice, it's Kyle's decision. New owners probably, too.

Through three Stanley Cup Playoff games, Malkin is leading the Penguins in scoring with two goals and one assist. He's averaging over 19 minutes of ice-time per game and it's obvious, he still has lots in the tank, and Pittsburgh is likely making a huge mistake if they decide to let him walk to finish off his hall-of-fame career with something else besides a Penguin on his chest.

Evgeni Malkin on the Penguins being down 3-0, his future, and being reunited with Egor Chinakhov — From Taylor Haase in Voorhees, N.J. pic.twitter.com/abRAwFMqhv
— DK Pittsburgh Sports (@DKPghSports) April 24, 2026