Insider David Pagnotta makes a surprising prediction regarding Evgeni Malkin's NHL future
Photo credit: Weirton Daily Times
NHL analyst David Pagnotta floated the possibility that the Pittsburgh Penguins could potentially re-sign Evgeni Malkin if they continue playing far better than most fans and analysts would have predicted.
Even the most conservative estimates by fans and analysts widely had the Pittsburgh Penguins penciled in as missing the playoffs for a fourth straight year, which would extend the longes drought in the careers of longtime franchise mainstays like Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang.
One of the main storylines coming into the year was that this was the final year in the contract of Evgeni Malkin, and that he could either retire or even potentially be traded to a more Stanley Cup contending team.
But the Penguins have surprised everything in the first quarter of the year under head coach Dan Muse with a 10-6-5 record through the opening 21 games.
Per a new report from NHL analyst David Pagnotta, the Penguins could potentially re-sign Malkin if they continue to play better than most everyone would have predicted.
David Pagnotta: Re Evgeni Malkin: If he continues that pace of play...and they're still in that race, then I think he looks to a 1 year extension to stick around for another season - DFO Rundown (11/19)
So far this year, Malkin has 23 points (5G, 18A) in 21 games.
Evgeni Malkin Said He Doesn't Want To Play Anywhere But Pittsburgh
Malkin recently made it clear that he doesn't want to wear the sweater of any NHL team other than the Penguins.
Sometimes you can imagine it - for example, if you win the Cup. But again, a lot depends on things I can't control. We'll talk after the season. There are many details. What if the team struggles or misses the playoffs, and big trades start? Of course, I don't see myself in another jersey - not in Florida, not in Colorado, anywhere.
Malkin has played his entire NHL career in Pittsburgh, winning three Stanley Cups and also winning the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2009.
Previously on HockeyUnplugged
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