Penguins Rally Around Unsigned Malkin: 'I Love Geno'
Pittsburgh Hockey Now • • sports
Key Points:
- Pittsburgh Penguins teammates expressed strong admiration and affection for Evgeni Malkin, who is facing unrestricted free agency on July 1 if not re-signed.
- Bryan Rust called Malkin a friend and mentor, emphasizing his importance to the team culture and his impact on and off the ice.
- Defenseman Erik Karlsson praised Malkin's professionalism and leadership, acknowledging his age but affirming his continued high-level play.
- Malkin, 40 this summer, indicated he would consider signing with another NHL team if the Penguins do not re-sign him, seeking to play one more season.
- Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang, Malkin's longtime teammates, expressed a strong desire to continue playing together, highlighting their 20-season tenure as a trio, but the future remains uncertain.
