Letang talks to Malkin after the forward makes worrisome comment on his new deal

The Pittsburgh Penguins announced Thursday afternoon that they signed defenseman Kris Letang to a six-year contract extension with a $6.1 million cap hit.

While the fanbase was ecstatic to keep the blue liner in the fold, they immediately got worried about what his deal means for the future of star forward Evgeni Malkin in the Burgh.

After Letang’s contract, the Penguins find themselves with over $15 million in cap space with plenty of free agents to sign. There is of course Malkin, as well as trade deadline addition Rickard Rakell, 2021-22 breakout Evan Rodrigues, and restricted free agents Kasperi Kapanen and Danton Heinen.

Malkin remains in contract discussions with the Penguins, but still commented on the post hoping to remain Letang’s teammate and not having to play against him.

Penguins GM Ron Hextall has mentioned more than once that the team wants Malkin to return and commented at the Draft that they keep working towards an extension with the Russian player.

Letang said he spoke to Malkin after he signed his new contract: “Just a little bit [smiles]. Obviously, he texted me today - he was really happy. I kind of just said, ‘I hope you get this done soon so we keep it all together.’”

Most recent rumors are that Malkin has been offered a two-year deal worth $6 million per year; Malkin declined but would take four years at that price.

Let’s hope, along with Geno, that he does not leave Pittsburgh to play against Letang, Sidney Crosby and his beloved Penguins in the near future…