Reports indicate Evgeni Malkin might leave the NHL earlier than anticipated

The future of Evgeni Malkin with the Pittsburgh Penguins is uncertain, with recent reports suggesting that the star center plans to return to Russia, potentially ending his NHL career sooner than expected.

This development could lead to significant changes within the Penguins' roster.

On his sports show, Mark Madden revealed that Malkin might forgo the final year of his contract to finish his career in Russia. Madden also hinted at possible mid-season roster changes, which could see Malkin leaving the Penguins if talks about his future stall.

The speculation doesn't stop with Malkin. Reports suggest that Kris Letang may be eyeing a move to the Montreal Canadiens, his home province team, to conclude his career.

Meanwhile, Sidney Crosby has yet to sign a contract extension, and with only one year left on his current deal, his future with the Penguins remains in limbo. The uncertainty surrounding Crosby's contract adds another layer of potential upheaval to the Penguins' roster.

Malkin has been a cornerstone of the Penguins since his debut in the 2006-07 season, accumulating 498 goals and 798 assists throughout his 18-year career. He is just shy of joining the 500-goal and 800-assist clubs, and only four points away from reaching 1300 career points.

As the season unfolds, if GM Kyle Dubas finds that contract discussions are leading nowhere and Malkin's departure becomes more likely, a trade to a playoff-contending team could be in the cards.

Fans should keep an eye on developments as the Penguins navigate this potentially transformative period.

Source: House of Hockey
Rumors emerge claiming Evgeni Malkin will be leaving NHL sooner than expected

Source: HockeyDB
Evgeni Malkin Stats

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