PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Another turn in the saga of Evgeni Malkin's future. Veteran TSN hockey reporter Darren Dreger reporting Monday Malkin will test free agency and not sign with the Pens prior.
It's the first time in his career that Malkin has not been under contract and after conversations between his camp and the Penguins, Dreger says he wants to see what his options are.
The soon-to-be 36-year-old played in 41 games this past season with 42 points (20 goals). His entire 16-year Hall of Fame career has been in Pittsburgh playing 981 games (2nd in team history) with 444 goals (3rd in team history), 702 assists (3rd in team history).
Malkin said he wanted to sign 'a good deal' when he last talked to reporters in May. He wanted to play three to four years and while money wasn't a big deal, he said he wants a good future for his family and parents.
He also made it clear it wasn't going to take a ridiculous discount from the $9.5 million he signed per season in his last contract.
"I believe in my body," Malkin said in May. "I believe in myself. I think this summer will be good for me. I will rest more with no injury. I feel amazing and this is a new challenge. I want to get back to my level and show I'm a good player."
"If I stay, I'll be so happy. If not, I'll move my family to another city and hope to show my best hockey."
According to Dreger's report he took another step towards moving.
