NHL Insider slams rumors of Evgeni Malkin returning to the KHL

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Mark Parsons
August 9, 2024 (6:16 PM)

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Recent speculation surrounding Pittsburgh Penguins star Evgeni Malkin has stirred up the hockey world. Mark Madden of 105.9 The X and TribLive reported that Malkin might be planning to leave the Penguins and return to the KHL, potentially foregoing the final year of his contract.

Madden hinted at behind-the-scenes discussions, raising questions about how this could impact Sidney Crosby and the team's future dynamics.

«I've been told (Malkin) won't be back after this year � that he'll go home and forgo the last year of his deal,» Madden said. «How does that impact Sid? Does Sid know? I bet he does. And I heard there were discussions about trying to get Letang to Montreal at Letang's request, but nothing came of that. So I don't know where this is headed.»

Rumors of Malkin returning to the KHL appear unfounded

However, according to Rob Rossi of The Athletic, who is closely connected with the Penguins, these rumors are unfounded. Rossi reports that there is no truth to the claims that Malkin plans to abandon the remaining two years of his contract with Pittsburgh. Malkin himself has dismissed the rumors, stating clearly that he intends to fulfill his contract, which he signed in 2022.

Malkin's commitment to the Penguins is evident. Despite being aware of his physical decline, the 38-year-old forward is determined to contribute to the team's success. He played all 82 games in the 2023-24 season, scoring 27 goals and accumulating 67 points, proving that he still has a lot to offer.

As the Penguins aim for one last push to the Stanley Cup before the iconic Core 3�Malkin, Crosby, and Kris Letang�potentially parts ways, Malkin is focused on helping the team make it back to the playoffs. For now, fans can rest assured that Malkin is committed to staying in Pittsburgh until his contract expires in 2026, with hopes of achieving more success alongside his longtime teammates.

Source: HockeyFeed

Ugly reports on Malkin get slammed by Penguins insider!