Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin has reiterated his hope to re-sign with the team and continue his career there next season. He stated that he wishes for his current season not to be his last with the Penguins and ideally wants to retire in Pittsburgh. However, Malkin acknowledged that the decision rests with General Manager Kyle Dubas and the new ownership. The veteran center, who will turn 40 on July 31st, recorded 19 goals and 42 assists for 61 points in 56 regular season games.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that the Toronto Maple Leafs are delving into various aspects during their interviews for the head of hockey operations position. Candidates are being questioned extensively on areas such as process, sports science, and the utilization and development of analytics. Significantly, the future of star forward Auston Matthews is a prominent concern that permeates these discussions. Both the Maple Leafs organization and the interviewees themselves are contemplating Matthews’ situation. The team is reportedly uncertain about Matthews’ intentions, recognizing that his decision could shape the franchise’s direction. Interestingly, some candidates are reportedly inquiring about Matthews’ future, possibly to assess potential opportunities should they not be hired, or to gain insights if they do secure the role. The Maple Leafs, for their part, are indicating that they need to be prepared for any eventuality regarding Matthews.
English Translation:
Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin has once again stated his desire to return to the team next year. He expressed hope that Saturday would not be his final game of the season and that he could re-sign with the Penguins. General Manager Kyle Dubas and Malkin’s agent, J.P. Barry, agreed to postpone contract negotiations until after the season concludes. Malkin said, “I hope it’s not over. I hope we’re still fighting. And my future, like I said again, I want to be here, I want to be part of the team next year too, and I want to retire in Pittsburgh. But it’s not my choice. You know, it’s Kyle’s decision and it’s probably the new owners’ too.” Malkin will celebrate his 40th birthday on July 31st. He contributed 19 goals and 42 assists for a total of 61 points in 56 regular season games.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly asking numerous questions about process, sports science, and analytics during interviews for their head of hockey operations role, with candidates also wondering about Auston Matthews’ future. According to Elliotte Friedman and Kyle Bukauskas on the 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, interviewees are being questioned thoroughly on process, sports science, and the building of analytics. Furthermore, the future of Auston Matthews is a significant factor in these conversations. The Maple Leafs acknowledge they are unsure of Matthews’ feelings, and his eventual decision could alter the franchise’s path. Some candidates, it’s suggested, are inquiring about Matthews’ status either in anticipation of securing the job or in case their current teams might want to preemptively explore the possibility of acquiring him if he becomes available. The Maple Leafs themselves are stating that they need to be ready for any outcome.
