Former Penguins forward Tyler Kennedy believes Evgeni Malkin will sign with Capitals if he does not re-sign with Penguins

Key Points:

• The Pittsburgh Penguins face a critical decision this summer regarding Evgeni Malkin, who is currently unsigned for next season and nearing 40 years old, with the team showing reluctance to extend his contract despite his desire to stay.
• Former Penguins player Tyler Kennedy suggested that if Pittsburgh does not re-sign Malkin, the veteran forward could join the Washington Capitals, where he shares a close friendship with Alex Ovechkin, potentially ending their careers together.
• Malkin rebounded in the 2025-26 season with 61 points in 56 games, but the Penguins’ commitment to a rebuild leaves uncertainty about his role and future with the team.
• While Malkin insists he wants to remain with Pittsburgh, Kennedy noted that Malkin might accept a reduced role to stay, but if not, reuniting with Ovechkin on the Capitals is a likely and appealing option.
• Ovechkin has expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of playing alongside Malkin professionally, a partnership that has only existed at the international level for Russia until now.