Pittsburgh Penguins Rumors – Cap Space, Evgeni Malkin, and Sidney Crosby

The Pittsburgh Penguins have lots of cap space, but …

Tim Benz of the Pittsburgh Tribune Live: The Pittsburgh Penguins have over $42.5 million in projected salary cap space, but GM Kyle Dubas has already warned fans that “it may not be as big of a July as everyone wants.” Dubas will be cautious in short-term spending in free agency or through trade, as he doesn’t want to handcuff himself down the road.

“We have to continue to add higher-end, younger players. We’ve got great depth there,” Dubas said. “I don’t think you’d look at it and necessarily guarantee that any of them — Ben is Ben — but once you get past that level, we need to continue. We’ve got great depth and guys that will fill in the roster.”

Joel Blomqvist and Sergei Murashov will battle for a roster spot in training camp, and nothing is guaranteed.

For decisions on pending UFA Evgeni Malkin and defenseman Kris Letang, who has two years left, Dubas will do what is best for the team, and not just to make fans happy. Dubas said that Malkin played some of his best hockey after sitting out with an injury (or the Olympic break), that if he’s brought back, they may consider some load management.

NHL Trade Market Taking Shape Ahead Of Summer

Penguins GM on if he anticipates an Evgeni Malkin return next year

Josh Yohe of The Athletic: Pittsburgh Penguins GM Kyle Dubas, when asked if he anticipates Evgeni Malkin returning next season.

“We had a great exit interview with Evgeni directly, and great conversations with him and his agent, J.P. Barry. With the season he had, where we’re going, I don’t look at it like he’s blocking anybody out. We would love to have him back. We’ll continue to work with J.P. on it.”

Malkin will be 40 years old in July and is coming off a 19-goal, 42-assist season in just 56 games. Malkin said earlier this month that if he’s not back with the Penguins next year, he’s open to playing somewhere else.

It’ll be year-to-year for Sidney Crosby

Josh Yohe of The Athletic: Sidney Crosby stated after the season that he’ll be in the “year-to-year” phase going forward. It wouldn’t be a surprise if he enters next season without an extension on place. He’ll be 39 years old in August. thinks that Crosby will end up playing two or three more years, but will be taking it a year at a time.