PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – It was reported Monday that Evgeni Malkin would see what was available in NHL free agency starting Wednesday at noon. Hours before that deadline would hit, Malkin re-signed with the Penguins.
The soon-to-be 36-year-old agrees to a four-year, $24.4 million contract Tuesday night. The annual value is the same as Kris Letang's new deal at $6.1 million per season.
"Evgeni is a generational talent who will be remembered as one of the greatest players in NHL history," said Pens General Manager Ron Hextall in a statement released by the team. "His hockey resume and individual accomplishments speak volumes about him as a player, and we are thrilled to watch him continue his remarkable legacy in Pittsburgh."
Malkin is tied with Sidney Crosby and Jaromir Jagr for first in team history with 78 game-winning goals. He's second in games played, power play goals and hat tricks. The Russian native is third in goals, assists and points.
Injuries have limited Malkin in the last three seasons, playing only half of the games last year. He managed 42 points in 41 games in 2021-22.
Last week during the NHL Draft Pens Head Coach Mike Sullivan expressed his desire that the core of Crosby, Letang and Malkin stay together.
"They are getting a little bit older but they are not old," Sullivan said. "I think there is a big difference. There's still elite play in these guys. I've never been around a better core, a more accomplished core, a more driven core during my time in the NHL. What they have accomplished is so impressive to this point."
"I believe they are hungry for more and they have the ability to accomplish great things."
Before free agency begins, the Pens have brought back their three most productive players with new contracts-Malkin, Letang and forward Rickard Rakell. They also signed restricted free agent defenseman PO Joseph. They have $4.2 million left under the cap according capfriendly.com.
