There may not be a better story in the NHL so far than the surprising start of the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Pens have entered the year expecting to be in the mix for Gavin McKenna and have pushed back on those who projected their demise. They currently sit in third place in the Metropolitan Division through their first seventeen games under new head coach Dan Muse.
The Penguins are, of course, still led by franchise icons Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkinwho continue to produce at an elite level until their late thirties.
Malkin has been particularly good, having already racked up 21 points (three, 18 assists), so has that changed anything when it comes to his playing future? Team reporter Dan Kingerski shared some of Malkin’s comments on the topic on Wednesday.
Malkin said:
“I mean, I’m trying not to think about a new contract, like another year. I told you before the season that I want to be happy. I just want to play my game, not too much, and just enjoy it every day. Enjoy hockey. Right now I’m just enjoying it every day, you know, come to the rink and try to do my best.”
The 39-year-old is currently playing the final season of the four-year, $24.4 million contract extension he signed to remain in Pittsburgh through 2022.
Malkin still has a lot left in the tank
While the previous two seasons saw Malkin’s production dip from his usual point-per-game standards, this year was vintage Geno.
Malkin looks spry and rejuvenated, playing all over the ice like fans have come to expect over the past two decades.
A revolving door of linemates and inconsistent power play opportunities hurt his numbers in recent years, so now, with Anthony Mantha and Justin Brazeau on his wings, and a return to a regular in PP1, Malkin has broken through.
There’s no doubt that it will be difficult to keep this production up for a full 82-game season, but if there’s one thing we should know, don’t count out the all-time greats, regardless of age.
Next: Sens Lock in Shane Pinto – but only after he turns down another deal
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