NHL Analyst Predicts Evgeni Malkin Could Land Monster Trade to Penguins Division Rivals
An NHL analyst has dropped a bomb regarding Evgeni Malkin's future, as he mentioned the Penguins legend could be traded to a division rival.
The Penguins will likely extend their Stanley Cup playoff drought to three seasons and, according to multiple reports, including 'The Athletic', GM Kyle Dubas may be gearing up for an active trade deadline.
Few players are considered untouchable, but one of them supposedly is, or at least was, Evgeni Malkin.
Apparently, the 38-year-old Russian superstar wants to retire in Pittsburgh along with fellow superstar Sidney Crosby, and there's a no-movement clause regardless.
But if the Penguins are stuck in mediocrity, wouldn't that open the door to dealing Malkin? He does carry a $6.1 million cap hit with just one year left on his deal, making him a highly attractive trade chip. He'd have a legit shot at another Stanley Cup.
The Penguins may strongly consider trading Evgeni Malkin to the Capitals
Imagine Malkin signing with the Washington Capitals. Playing behind Alexander Ovechkin and alongside a fellow Russian legend may be fitting. Additionally, the proximity of Washington to Pittsburgh may ease the transition on Malkin.
Or possibly the Dallas Stars could be a good bet. With Tyler Seguin's injury and cap space possibly opened up due to LTIR, Dallas offers up a «win-now» roster, a smaller market, and warm weather.
The Penguins, however, are in the squishy middle of the NHL. Moving Malkin would see long-coveted picks and prospects returned to build a brighter tomorrow.
His legacy in Pittsburgh is cemented, but holding on to that nostalgia does not improve the team.
If Malkin wants to stay, he most likely can. But Dubas and the Penguins must avoid a Mats Sundin/Maple Leafs scenario where loyalty outweighs what is in the franchise's best interests.
Moving Malkin, not Kris Letang or Erik Karlsson, would provide the biggest return and perhaps give the reboot that Pittsburgh needs.
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 24 | 357 ANSWERS NHL Analyst Predicts Evgeni Malkin Could Land Monster Trade to Penguins Division Rivals Will the Penguins trade Evgeni Malkin within their division? | ||
| Yes | 106 | 29.7 % |
| No | 251 | 70.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
