The Pittsburgh Penguins have defied expectations through the first quarter of the 2025-26 season. After missing the playoffs three consecutive years, the franchise sits third in the Metropolitan Division with a 10-5-4 record. In that time, Evgeni Malkin has been leading the charge.

The 39-year-old center has rediscovered his elite form under new head coach Dan Muse. However, Malkin’s contract expires after this season, creating uncertainty about his future with the only NHL organization he’s ever known.

With speculation mounting about potential destinations if he leaves Pittsburgh, the Russian center recently addressed his situation.

Evgeni Malkin Makes Feelings Clear on Trade Rumor Links With Panthers

Malkin has thrived in the new system installed by Muse. The Penguins currently boast the NHL’s best power play at 34.1 percent, with Malkin quarterbacking the top unit. His hot start has generated 15 points through 19 games while providing veteran leadership.

“It’s hard to say what exactly helped me start so well. New coach, new linemates. It’s working so far,” Malkin said when asked about his resurgence. The center acknowledged that luck has played a factor in his recent production.

“In the last game and today, I got a bit lucky, two goals from behind the net. But we’re trying to play solid hockey. The power play is clicking, one of the best in the league. And for now, luck is on our side. I hope it stays that way,” Malkin said.

However, age has become an increasing factor in Malkin’s daily routine. When asked how old he feels, the center delivered a brutally honest assessment about the physical toll of playing professional hockey at 39.

“Honestly, sometimes you wake up and feel like you’re 40 or even older. Some games really take a lot out of you. In the morning, everything hurts. But then you get a massage, do your treatments, cold tubs – and you’re back,” Malkin explained.

The recovery process has become crucial to maintaining his performance level. “The main thing is to take care of yourself: get the extra massage, do the procedures, and take vitamins. Overall, I feel fine. I don’t want to say what age I feel, because it changes.”

The Penguins haven’t initiated contract extension talks yet. Team president Kyle Dubas stated a decision will be made later, possibly during the Olympic break in February. Malkin remains unconcerned about the timeline.

“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,” he said. The NHL veteran understands management’s perspective. “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 future may be shrouded by uncertainty and trade rumors, but the Penguins icon knows he has his future in his own hands as Pittsburgh makes it clear they mean business.