“I retire with Pittsburgh”: Evgeni Malkin addresses future, no plans to leave Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Penguins star Evgeni Malkin has addressed recent speculation about his future, making it clear that he intends to finish his NHL career with the Penguins. In an interview, he stated, “I retire with Pittsburgh,” dismissing rumors of retirement or a move to another team.

Evgeni Malkin, Pittsburgh Penguins icon, has confirmed that he will not retire after this season and will not play in any other American city, thereby halting speculation about his career ending in Russia.

“I not retire,” Evgani Malkin said. “I know what some people say — like, I go back to Russia and play for my home team. But I never say it, you know? I retire with Pittsburgh. The Penguins are my team. I love this team. When I retire it’s here.”
Malkin made it clear that he doesn’t plan to return to Russia full-time after his current contract expires in July 2027. However, he did leave the door open for a farewell game with his hometown team, Metallurg Magnitogorsk. “Maybe one game for home team in Russia. Just one to say goodbye,” Malkin said.
Malkin, 38, has been sidelined with a knee injury since January 25 but is set to return on February 22 against the Washington Capitals. Despite his injury, he has contributed 34 points in 47 games this season. His return is crucial as the Penguins fight for a playoff spot, currently sitting six points out.

“I’m not feeling much pain,” Malkin said. “When your knee, what I’ve done before, you always think bad things.” While Malkin’s contract runs through the 2025-26 season, he hasn’t decided if it will be his last. However, he reaffirmed that if he plays in the NHL, it will only be for Pittsburgh.
Malkin’s dedication to ending his NHL career with the Penguins provides clarity for fans, while the idea of a farewell game in Russia adds a personal touch to his journey. For now, his priority is helping Pittsburgh in their playoff push.
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Malkin has won multiple medals at the junior and senior levels. He won gold twice at the 2012 World Championships and was named tournament MVP in 2006. Malkin also participated in three Winter Olympic Games, including Turin in 2006, Vancouver in 2010, and Sochi in 2014. In 2020, he was named to the IIHF All-Time Russia Team.