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Evgeni Malkin Makes His Position Clear on Penguins Trade Rumors
Photo credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Evgeni Malkin shuts down trade talk, Penguins no-movement clause and Pittsburgh loyalty turn deadline noise into dust.
That’s the gist of the Josh Yohe note making the rounds, Malkin has a full NMC and “absolutely no interest” in leaving.
In plain terms, this is not a “shop him” situation unless Malkin himself opens the door.
His current deal runs through the end of 2025-26 with a $6.1 million cap hit, and the clause protection is real.
So if you’re wondering why the rumor mill keeps spinning anyway, it’s because Pittsburgh is balancing present pride with a roster that keeps getting younger.
Re Evgeni Malkin: "He has a full no-movement clause, loves Pittsburgh and has absolutely no interest in leaving."
- Josh Yohe
- Josh Yohe
The other reason is Malkin can still drive offense when he’s feeling it, and he has done that this year.
As of mid-February, he sits at 13-31-44, which is not “passenger” production for a top-six center.
The Penguins are also right in the mix at 29-15-12, with games resuming Thursday against New Jersey after the break.
Evgeni Malkin keeps the Pittsburgh Penguins grounded
Honestly, Penguins fans are tired of the annual “split up the core” shouting match, especially when the math says Malkin controls it anyway.
Tactically, his value is still in the middle of the ice, slowing the game down, slipping pucks through layers, and keeping a line dangerous even when legs aren’t flying.
On the man advantage, you don’t replace his left-shot looks and patience with a waiver claim and a pep talk.
If Kyle Dubas wants optionality, the real play is simple, talk extension later, and see what number makes sense.
Reports have also suggested Malkin would even consider a pay cut to stay, which tracks with the loyalty angle Yohe’s been on for a while.
Either way, the headline remains the same on February 18, 2026, Malkin’s not chasing an exit, he’s chasing one more run.
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