A recent rumor has sparked significant buzz in the NHL world, suggesting that the New York Rangers and Pittsburgh Penguins have discussed a potential trade involving veteran center Evgeni Malkin. According to a source, this conversation has taken place, although no deal is imminent.
The speculation comes amid the Penguins being one of the few teams currently viewed as clear sellers, a surprising situation considering the big-name, long-term contracts still on their books. These include Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang, Erik Karlsson, and Malkin, all cornerstone players now deep into their 30s.
Penguins’ Aging Core Faces Decline as Malkin Emerges as Trade Option Amid Uncertainty
The Penguins’ core, while accomplished, is undeniably aging. Karlsson (35), Crosby (37), Letang (38), and Malkin (39) are all under contract for at least two more seasons, with Malkin’s deal expiring the earliest in 2025–26. Despite relatively manageable cap hits for three of the four players, their advancing age and recent performance trends suggest the window for serious contention is closing.
Malkin, in particular, stands out as a possible trade chip due to his expiring deal and declining productivity, as he has seen a steady drop in point totals over the last three seasons.
Evgeni Malkin (NHL)Among the four stars, Crosby continues to play at a high level, consistently putting up 90-point seasons and maintaining a point-per-game pace. Karlsson has also been durable and productive, notching consistent 50+ point seasons while playing all 82 games.
Letang’s performance has been more volatile, rebounding in 2023–24 before declining again due to injury and reduced power-play time. Malkin’s trajectory has been downward, both in terms of health and production, dropping from 83 points to just 50 last season.
Rangers Lack True Top-Line Center, Malkin Could Fill Role Despite Risks
The Rangers’ center situation might make Malkin an attractive, if risky, fit. While they list Vincent Trocheck, Mika Zibanejad, and J.T. Miller as their top three centers, only Trocheck plays the position full-time. Zibanejad and Miller have shifted between wing and center throughout their careers, leaving the team thin down the middle.
With Trocheck and Zibanejad combining for only 121 points last season, there is a clear need for a more productive center, especially one who could drive the top line.
Despite his decline, Malkin still produces at a higher per-game rate than any current Rangers center. In New York, he could finally get the top-line center role he has long desired, something he rarely had in Pittsburgh due to Crosby’s presence.
The chance to center a line with Artemi Panarin could rejuvenate Malkin’s offensive game. For many Russian players, the first-line center spot holds special prestige, akin to being a team’s ace pitcher in baseball. If the Rangers believe Malkin has another productive run left in him, this move could make short-term sense, despite the long-term risks.
