Evgeni Malkin's Future in Pittsburgh: Elliotte Friedman Reveals Key Details
Photo credit: Edit from PensBurgh
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that if Evgeni Malkin is going to be traded, it would 100% be him agreeing to it, as he stated he wants to remain.
Elliotte Friedman reported some recent speculation on Evgeni Malkin and stated that any transaction would come down to Malkin's personal consent.
His services are tempting to possible destinations like Florida, and with Aleksander Barkov not being ruled out just yet for the year, there is less pressure on the Panthers to acquire him.
Malkin has been steadfast in his desire to play for Pittsburgh alone, and this has further silenced external discussion.
Re Malkin rumours: "It would have to be Malkin agreeing to it; Malkin's salary will be an impediment to a team like Florida; they have not declared Barkov out for the year; he's been adamant he's only gonna play for Pittsburgh."
- Elliotte Friedman
- Elliotte Friedman
Maybe if a team like the Panthers finally gets clarity on Barkov and knows for a fact he is completely done for the year, then maybe, just maybe, Florida will circle back on Malkin closer to the trade deadline.
Sidney Crosby's Name Continues to Be Thrown Around in Trade Rumors
In the meantime, the rumor mill has spread beyond Malkin. Just about every Penguins star has been bandied about in trade talk, including Sidney Crosby.
In Montreal, fans fantasize about Crosby teaming up with Nick Suzuki to create an elite one-two punch up the middle. But, similar to Malkin, that choice would be Crosby's and his alone.
The Penguins may choose to rebuild, but no trade could occur without Crosby waiving his no-movement clause, a move he's never indicated any desire to make.
Nevertheless, the team's woes are stoking speculation. Crosby has conceded that losing always leads to more speculation, just as winning makes the talk about adding to the roster.
He's aware of the Penguins' trajectory under Kyle Dubas, who seems to be taking the franchise towards a phase of transition instead of short-term contention.
As the season wears on, much will depend on Pittsburgh's performance and how patient its core is willing to remain. Should the team fall short again, Crosby's and Malkin's futures will be only more questionable.
For now, at least, both are still aboard to see through what they started in Pittsburgh, until they change their minds, that is.
TRENDING NOW
