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Dubas seeks clarity as Malkin leaves Penguins future open
Evgeni Malkin returns for his 21st season, but his plans beyond the current deal remain unsettled as Pittsburgh looks to get younger.
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No firm retirement decision
Evgeni Malkin is back with the Pittsburgh Penguins, but his future beyond this season remains unresolved. General manager Kyle Dubas signaled Monday that he does not want another prolonged wait over whether the veteran forward will continue playing. Speaking ahead of Wednesday's regular-season opener, Dubas expressed frustration with approaching Malkin's status on a recurring, short-term basis. He did not explain what that stance might mean for future contract discussions. Malkin signed a one-year extension in May to return for his 21st season. He has not committed to making the 2026-27 campaign his last.
Health will shape the next step
In September, Malkin indicated that he remained interested in playing beyond the upcoming season, while stressing that his physical condition would guide the decision. His enthusiasm for games and practices remains strong, but he wants to see how his body responds over the coming months. His latest extension followed a rebound in 2025-26, when he recorded 19 goals and 61 points in 56 games. That production helped Pittsburgh finish with the league's third-ranked offense before a first-round playoff exit against Philadelphia.
A franchise mainstay amid change
After that elimination, Malkin expressed interest in continuing his career, whether in Pittsburgh or elsewhere. He ultimately stayed with the only NHL franchise he has represented. Alongside Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang, Malkin remains part of the veteran core that helped Pittsburgh win Stanley Cup titles in 2009, 2016 and 2017. His 1,407 career points with the Penguins trail only Mario Lemieux and Crosby. With the organization working to get younger, Dubas' comments leave an unresolved question hanging over the season: how long Malkin will remain part of Pittsburgh's plans.
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