Evgeni Malkin with the Wild: Nick Kypreos opens the door

Pablo Herrera-Vergara
Evgeni Malkin with the Wild: Nick Kypreos opens the door
Credit: YouTube screenshot

Against all odds, the Pittsburgh Penguins are in the running for a playoff spot. For the time being, they hold the top draft position in the East.

Rumors about Sidney Crosby have died down in recent weeks, but now Sportsnet analyst Nick Kypreos is opening the door to a deal for another key Penguins player.

He hears that Minnesota Wild general manager Bill Guerin is keeping quiet for now, but is keeping a close eye on the Penguins' situation.

He wonders whether Kirill Kaprizov, the team's star player, will be able to convince Malkin to make the move to Minnesota.

After adding Quinn Hughes, this would be another big coup on Guerin's part. Malkin has just returned from a month-long absence due to an upper-body injury.

I find it hard to believe that the Penguins are willing to trade Malkin at this time. We know about his relationship with Crosby and the team's playoff chances, at least so far.

However, if that were to happen, the rumors about Crosby would start all over again, and with good reason. Without Malkin, the Penguins' captain would have far fewer reasons to stay in Pittsburgh, especially as the team would weaken.

Habs fans who want to see Crosby in a Habs uniform must also want Guerin to succeed. It could all come together pretty quickly, especially if it happens close to the trade deadline.

The Penguins will have to rebuild sooner rather than later, it remains to be seen when. It doesn't seem so imminent with the season they're having, but, by trading Crosby, Malkin, and potentially Kristopher Letang, the return could give them a good base to rebuild from.


Overtime

– It's hard to argue with him.

– What a feat!

– It won't be easy in Milan.

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