Penguins rumors: Pierre LeBrun makes Evgeni Malkin contract guarantee

The Pittsburgh Penguins are moving on after losing in the Stanley Cup Playoffs to their in-state rival, the Philadelphia Flyers. Heading into the 2026-27 season, Pittsburgh has work to do to figure out their roster. That includes what to do about veteran Evgeni Malkin, who will be an unrestricted free agent this summer.

The Penguins are likely to sign Malkin to a new one-year deal, per a report from The Athletic.

“The Penguins have been engaged in contract talks with Malkin’s agent, J.P. Barry. Malkin turns 40 on July 31, so it’s no surprise both sides are focused on a one-year deal. But it’s finding the sweet spot on the compensation that has remained elusive so far,” Pierre LeBrun wrote.

Malkin is about to turn 40 years old. He has been skating with the Penguins for a very long time, and has won three Stanley Cup championships with the franchise.

“Malkin’s AAV was $6.1 million this year, although with his front-loaded contract, his actual compensation was $4.8 million. I would imagine the Penguins would be starting talks closer to that $4.8 million and the agent would be starting closer to the AAV,” LeBrun added.

The Penguins remain committed to keeping Malkin.

“Because of Malkin’s age, the one-year deal could include bonuses, which would help massage the AAV,” LeBrun added. “This will eventually get done. Malkin isn’t going anywhere. But it’s not done yet.”

The veteran center has been open about his desire to keep playing with the Penguins. Malkin appeared in all six of the Pens playoff games this season. He posted three points in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

During the 2025-26 campaign, Malkin battled injuries. He finished the regular season with 61 points, including 42 assists.

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