Evgeni Malkin speaks out against constant trade and free agent rumors

Pittsburgh Penguins superstar Evgeni Malkin is turning back the clock.

The 39 year old former Hart Trophy winner (2012) has 23 points in 19 games and, together with captain Sidney Crosby, he's leading the charge for a playoff spot in 2026.

The Penguins have been pretty mediocre the past few seasons and Malkin admitted to RG.org earlier this week that the team's play has worn on him. In fact, he entered this season, perhaps his final NHL season, with the intent to enjoy every moment and not let the team's poor play affect him mentally.

“The last few years were tough. We missed the playoffs and didn’t play our best hockey. Before this season, I told myself: if this is the last one, I just need to enjoy it. Not pay attention to negativity or the stories about trades. I come to practice and try to enjoy every day. If it ends up being my last season, it’s OK. If I play well and we agree on one or two more years, that would be great. I’ve accepted the situation and came into this year with a new mindset.”

Malkin also admitted to RG.org that he's not thinking about next season and his next contract... at least not yet.

“I think it’s too early to talk about it. The season is long; there are many games ahead. We’ll see how I feel. I understand his concerns – he wants to see how I perform over a long stretch. Sometimes players start well for 20 games, then the scoring disappears. The main thing is to play well the whole season. Then we’ll talk – maybe in February, maybe after the season. I don’t want to worry about it. I just want to enjoy hockey.”

Malkin's name has been thrown around in trade rumors for a few seasons now and he admits that watching Brad Marchand leave his long-time Boston Bruins to win a Stanley Cup for the Florida Panther has him intrigued, but he just can't leave the Penguins.

“Sometimes you can imagine it – for example, if you win the Cup. But again, a lot depends on things I can’t control. We’ll talk after the season. There are many details. What if the team struggles or misses the playoffs, and big trades start? Of course, I don’t see myself in another jersey – not in Florida, not in Colorado, anywhere. I’ve played my whole life in Pittsburgh. I love the fans, I love the city. I want to finish here. But there are always details. And of course, I want to fight for another Cup.”

You hear that, Kyle Dubas?

Your fan favorite, superstar, future Hall of Famer wants to stay. Don't blow it like Don Sweeney did for the Bruins.

For the full article from RG.org, click below: