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Penguins GM Highlights 'Major Focus' for Evgeni Malkin Amid Uncertain Future

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Jul 1, 2025 7:42 AM ET

Evgeni Malkin’s future with the Pittsburgh Penguins was widely assumed to be heading toward a conclusion in 2025–26, the final season of his current deal.

Malkin, who will turn 39 at the end of July, is entering the final season of his four-year, $24.4 million contract. The Russian center signed his deal back in 2022 and has spent all of his 19 NHL seasons in Pittsburgh.

On Monday, general manager Kyle Dubas made it clear that the veteran’s retirement is far from a sure thing.

“No,” Dubas said when asked if Malkin would be done after this year. “I talked to Geno at the end of the year, after the year. I get it, it’s the last year of his contract, and it’s been a topic of discussion. We’ll meet at the Olympic break this year and see where Geno’s at, and meet at the end of the year.”

Kyle Dubas, on where things stand with Evgeni Malkin ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/k6bPxxR28L
— Pens Inside Scoop (@PensInsideScoop) June 30, 2025

Despite Malkin's age and contract situation, Dubas said the Russian star continues to produce and might merit a new deal to extend his career. That contract extension, however, will have to wait.

“It’s strange," Dubas said. "He’s going to be 39 at the end of July. He’s still playing at a very high level for a player of that age. He means a great deal to the community.

"Our major focus is on treating him right, pushing him to continue to be at his best this year, and do right by him by continuing to communicate with him where he stands.”

Malkin and fellow superstar teammate Sidney Crosby are set to enter their 20th season together.

New head coach Dan Muse brushed off the idea of trading any of the Penguins' veterans, emphasizing the importance of keeping them engaged and leading the team as Pittsburgh tries to maximize the last years of the current Penguins' core.

“In regards to the veteran players, you’re always working with the leaders," Muse said. "Guys that have been in this organization for such a long time. You’re going to be leaning on them.”

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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