“I’m OK With That”: Malkin Relays Message From Dubas on Contract Situation

Evgeni Malkin spoke to the media on Monday, discussing his five-game suspension and talks he’s had with GM Kyle Dubas about returning next season with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Seemingly frustrated because of a lack of progress on an extension, Malkin seems to have settled into the fact that this isn’t something that’s going to get done before the end of the season.

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He noted, “I can’t say anything. We talked probably two weeks ago. He told me we would talk this summer. I’m OK with that.”

Malkin understands that the organization is probably passed the point where conversations with him about his next deal are a priority. Close to the end of the season, the Penguins are in a playoff race that few expected them to be in. That has to be the focus until their season is done. Any contract stuff with Malkin will simply have to wait.

“We have 15 games left, I hope playoffs.” He added, “I want to just play. He [Dubas] asked if I wanted to play next year. I said yes. He said, “Don’t worry, we’ll talk after the season.” I’m OK (with that). I feel great. I want to play next year, too. Maybe two years. Who knows? Again, it’s just business.”

Malkin was recently suspended for five games after hitting Rasmus Dahlin in the face with his stick. When asked whether he had an issue with the length of the suspension, he was under the impression that if the player wasn’t injured, it might be a bit shorter. He thought there was a big line between three games and five games, and he just wanted to move forward and play.

This sounds like a deal that will eventually get done. He’s played too well not to be given at least a one-year contract and if he’s willing to make it easy for the Penguins to sign him, there’s little reason not to.

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