Penguins Legend Evgeni Malkin Linked to Rangers in Wild Panarin Trade Rumor
Photo credit: Reuters
The New York Rangers have been named a team to look out for when it comes to the future of current Pittsburgh Penguins icon Evgeni Malkin, per NHL Trade Rumors.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are in a transitional period and, even though they've not made the playoffs in the last 3 years, they could be on the verge of a long time before they're realistic contenders for the postseason again.
Could the Penguins Really Move On From Malkin After This Season?
This year is likely the last in the career of longtime Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin, who is only under contract through June 30 of next summer.
GM Kyle Dubas recently said that he knows Malkin's contract year has been widely discussed and that he plans to talk to him during the break in the NHL schedule during the Olympics in February.
Why Rangers See Malkin as the Ideal Center to Unlock Panarin's Game
Not only has Malkin's longtime teammate Sidney Crosby been involved in trade rumors, as he could choose to try and win another Stanley Cup before he retires, but there's a chance Malkin could soon find himself in rumors as well.
Because the Penguins aren't likely to challenge for a playoff spot, the Penguins could try and move him and get assets in return.
One team that has been suggested is the New York Rangers, who had a disappointing year in 2024-25, missing the playoffs only a season after winning the President's Trophy.
The Hockey Buzz is reporting that New York is the only destination Malkin would waive for, thanks to the city's deep cultural ties to Russian players and the opportunity to play a top-line role. Whether it is true or not that Malkin wouldn't consider other teams is hard to determine. Anything is possible if he comes to terms with playing somewhere other than Pittsburgh.
Playing with a fellow countryman like Panarin could give Malkin a jolt and make the Rangers a dangerous Round 1 opponent in the postseason.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 30 | 50 ANSWERS Penguins Legend Evgeni Malkin Linked to Rangers in Wild Panarin Trade Rumor Would Evgeni Malkin fit in with the Rangers? | ||
| Yes | 24 | 48 % |
| No | 26 | 52 % |
| List of polls | ||
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