Pittsburgh Penguins
Evgeni Malkin Signs Interesting Extension with the Penguins
Evgeni Malkin has signed a one-year extension with the Pittsburgh Penguins, a deal worth $5.5 million next season.
The Pittsburgh Penguins have re-signed franchise icon Evgeni Malkin to a one-year contract extension worth $5.5 million for the 2026-27 season. Pierre LeBrun reports: “Malkin’s one-year deal is an interesting one: $2.5M salary, $3M signing bonus, $500k in GP bonuses, $1M for making playoffs, $500k per round won: total could be worth up to $9M if the maximum number of things happen.”
After a fantastic season that included solid numbers for Malkin, and talk that the Penguins might not be keen to re-up his deal, both sides were ultimately able to figure it out. The unique deal was announced Tuesday, and it includes performance bonuses that require a lot of positive things to happen for the Penguins if Malkin is to hit them.
Malkin would have become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, but made it clear throughout the season that he wanted to stay in Pittsburgh.
Things changed toward the end of the season from a Penguins perspective, as Dubas said the team would “love” to have him back.
Key Details of the Malkin Deal
Malkin, who turns 40 in July, played in 56 games during the 2025-26 season (limited by injuries) and posted 61 points (22G, 39A).GM Kyle Dubas talked about how injuries and a suspension impacted how many games Malkin was able to play, but also pointed out that a little time off helped the veteran forward.
This will mark his 21st season with the Penguins alongside Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang — the longest-tenured core trio in North American major professional sports
The contract represents a significant pay cut from his previous $6.1 million AAV, showing Malkin’s willingness to help the team stay competitive while transitioning toward a younger roster. It also likely suggests that the Pens took advantage of the fact that Malkin made it clear he didn’t want to play elsewhere. This was two sides finding a middle ground in order to give both what they wanted.
Malkin has spent his entire 20-year NHL career with the Penguins after being drafted second overall in 2004. He has won three Stanley Cups, a Hart Trophy, and ranks as one of the greatest players in franchise history.
Next: “That is a Direct Shot” at Maple Leafs: Marner’s Comments Creating Buzz“
Discover more from NHL Trade Talk
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
More News
