One of the most beloved stars in Pittsburgh Penguins history is entering what could be his final chapter with the franchise. As the 2025–26 NHL season approaches, fans are preparing to say goodbye to a player who has been instrumental in the Penguins’ three Stanley Cup victories.
Evgeni Malkin, a future Hall of Famer and one of the greatest talents in franchise history, will suit up for his 20th season with Pittsburgh. However, according to a trusted insider, this milestone campaign will also likely be his last with the team.
Pittsburgh Penguins’ Franchise Icon Evgeni Malkin Likely Facing Final Season
Malkin, one of the seasoned players of the Pittsburgh Penguins for nearly two decades, is gearing up for what many believe will be his farewell season with the franchise.
The 38-year-old center, who has amassed 1,346 points in 1,213 games and surpassed the 500-goal mark in October, still has some gas left in the tank, but the Penguins don’t seem ready to extend his career in black and gold any further.
According to Josh Yohe of The Athletic, the Penguins do not plan to offer Malkin another contract after the upcoming season. “Evgeni Malkin will return for his 20th campaign with the Penguins next season. It will be his last in Pittsburgh.”
It’s not known if Geno Malkin is going to retire from hockey after this season, but from what I’ve heard, the 2025-26 campaign will be his final season with the Penguins. Read about it here: https://t.co/ovyALQ1lWP
— Josh Yohe (@JoshYohe_PGH) June 16, 2025
Yohe wrote, citing team sources. The organization’s decision leaves fans with a bittersweet outlook, as Malkin has repeatedly expressed his desire to finish his NHL career in Pittsburgh.
While Malkin remains a serviceable player, scoring 16 goals and collecting 50 points in 68 games last season, his production has declined compared to his prime years. Still, the Penguins legend has made it clear he wants to finish what he started in Pittsburgh.
The front office, meanwhile, appears focused on turning over the roster and starting a new era under President of Hockey Operations Kyle Dubas and new head coach Dan Muse.
On Daily Faceoff LIVE, NHL insider Frank Seravalli commented on Malkin’s role in Pittsburgh’s remaining core. “I don’t think Evgeni Malkin has shown a lot of interest in playing elsewhere,” said Seravalli. “I think Evgeni Malkin is one of the last remaining things that’s tying Sidney Crosby to Pittsburgh.”
That bond between Malkin and Crosby has long been the emotional and competitive backbone of the Penguins franchise. Seravalli noted that Crosby himself likely wants to finish his career alongside Malkin and won’t make any major decisions until their playing days together conclude.
Despite his age, Malkin continues to show a strong interest in contributing to the team. He is reportedly excited about playing with forward Tommy Novak, who was acquired from Nashville at the trade deadline.
Malkin sees Novak’s speed and puck-handling skills as complementary to his game, and there’s a strong chance they’ll start the season on the second line together, with Malkin possibly shifting to wing.
Last season, Malkin experimented with Crosby’s line to help spark the captain’s offense. While the move helped Crosby regain form, Malkin struggled afterward and even lost his top power-play role for a period, a first in his Pittsburgh career.
As the team prepares to turn the page with a new coach and a changing roster, the 2025–26 season could be the final chance for fans to see Malkin in a Penguins jersey. Whether he retires or tests the waters elsewhere remains to be seen
