Brace yourself fans of the Pittsburgh Penguins, but big news dropped today. Legendary centre Evgeni Malkin contract extension details have been released, as he will return for his 21st NHL campaign. Let’s discuss the details.
Pens Legend and Centre Evgeni Malkin Contract Extension Announced
Credit Image: © PhotoXpress/ZUMAPRESS.com
It is a one-year, bonus-laden deal. Moreover, it will carry a salary cap hit of $5.5 million.
Evgeni Malkin is returning to the #pens for a 21st season: He's signing a one-year, bonus-laden extension
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) May 26, 2026
Was there any doubt? After a surprising campaign by the Pens, that saw them defy the naysayers and qualify for the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the good vibes are continuing. General manager Kyle Dubas has been able to convince their veteran Russian to run-it-back, one last time.
With Kris Letang signed until the summer of 2028 and Sidney Crosby having one year left on his deal, and recently announcing he fully intends to sign another NHL contract, the Big Three will be staying in Pittsburgh for the time being. They have been together since Letang and Malkin’s rookie seasons, way back in 2006-07. Since that time, they have been one of the most legendary trios in all-sport, not just the NHL. They have captured three Stanley Cup Championships together, and Malkin himself is up to 1269 career regular season games under his belt, along with another 183 playoff contests.
A Look at the Career of Evgeni Malkin
As we announce the new Evgeni Malkin contract, his role has reduced somewhat, as he had an average of 17:36 of ice time in 2025-26, down from his impressive career mark of 19:28. However, the soon to be 40-year-old, did have his first point-per-game season since 2022-23. In 56 games for the one they call Geno, he managed 19 goals, 42 assists for a total of 61 points. He still plays a significant role on the power play.
Furthermore, thanks to the emergence of centres Thomas Novak and Benjamin Kindel on the team, it has sheltered the veteran. This has allowed the rejuvenation that we have seen in his play. In any sense, his veteran presence will be welcomed in the dressing room for one more go around, and try to lead the next generation to ultimate success.
It has been a wonderful career for the Russian, amassing 1407 points so far, and looks like more to come. That is good for 23rd all time, at this point. Also, he is fifth all-time among European-born players. In contrast, there is a group of players just ahead of him. If he can manage 60 points in 2026-27, he would be tied with Stan Makita for 17th on the all-time list. Note that Patrick Kane is currently one spot behind Malkin at 1,400 points. So, the list will look a lot different at the end of next year.
Main Photo: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Sidney Crosby is making it clear retirement is NOT something he’s thinking about, despite entering the final year of his contract at 39 years old.
He says he wants to keep playing “for as many years as possible” 👀🔥 (h/t @JoshYohe_PGH) pic.twitter.com/UatSAoer0g
— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) May 21, 2026
