Malkin Hints at Major Career Decision in a Worrisome Statement
When Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby joined the Pittsburgh Penguins back in 2005 and 2006, they represented the "new generation of players." They dominated the League at the time.
Now, almost 20 years later, their situation has changed.
The Penguins lost one of the most important games of the season yesterday against the Blackhawks, and they might miss the playoffs for the first time since 2006.
During the post-game interview, Malkin's statement had many fans worried.
Malkin Hints at Future Retirement
While he doesn't explicitly say it, the fact that he talks about the "new generation" highlights his age. At 36 years old, it won't get easier, and he acknowledges it.
Malkin's $6.1 million AAV contract will end in 2026. He had another great season this year, scoring 83 points in 81 games.
If they don't make the playoffs, this will have been a complete waste of perhaps one of the last good seasons of the Crosby-Malkin tandem.
As seen on Hockey Feed - Malkin admits the uncomfortable truth for Penguins
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 12 | 853 ANSWERS Malkin Hints at Major Career Decision in a Worrisome Statement Do you think the Penguins will make the playoffs next year? | ||
| Yes | 445 | 52.2 % |
| No | 408 | 47.8 % |
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![Feb 20, 2025; Boston, MA, USA; [Imagn Images direct customers only] Team USA forward Brady Tkachuk (7) celebrates scoring against Team Canada during the first period during the 4 Nations Face-Off ice hockey championship game at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images](https://i.marqueur.com/habsetlnh/medium/530920.webp "Feb 20, 2025; Boston, MA, USA; [Imagn Images direct customers only] Team USA forward Brady Tkachuk (7) celebrates scoring against Team Canada during the first period during the 4 Nations Face-Off ice hockey championship game at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images")
![Feb 20, 2025; Boston, MA, USA; [Imagn Images direct customers only] Team Canada forward Mitch Marner (16) warms up prior to the during the first periodau- during the 4 Nations Face-Off ice hockey championship game at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images](https://i.marqueur.com/habsetlnh/medium/530913.webp "Feb 20, 2025; Boston, MA, USA; [Imagn Images direct customers only] Team Canada forward Mitch Marner (16) warms up prior to the during the first periodau- during the 4 Nations Face-Off ice hockey championship game at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images")
