Rangers Eyes Trade for Iconic No. 1 Center Evgeni Malkin to Play With Artemi Panarin
As the Pittsburgh Penguins prepare for a rebuilding phase, whispers of a trade involving their legendary center, Evgeni Malkin, are gaining traction. According to NHLTradeRumors insider Jeremy Tingly, the New York Rangers are among the teams strongly linked to pursuing Malkin—citing his final season under contract, a hefty $6.1 million cap hit, and his coveted no-movement clause .
Malkin would bring championship pedigree and elite playmaking to a Rangers lineup featuring panache creator Artemi Panarin. The reunion of these two Russian forwards draws natural intrigue—potentially igniting chemistry that could elevate New York’s offensive potency.
This season, Pittsburgh seems geared to shift toward youth under President Kyle Dubas, despite Malkin’s iconic status . With the 2025–26 campaign marking the final year of his deal—and no extension expected—the pressure for a trade builds .
Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan adds an interesting layer: the former Penguin bench boss who led Pittsburgh to two Stanley Cups is now tasked with retooling New York. Sullivan’s familiarity with Malkin could smooth any potential integration .
While nothing is formal, the possibility of pairing Malkin with Panarin—two talented, experienced Russian centers—is compelling. If the Rangers are intent on making a deep playoff run, this bold move could be a defining moment in their quest to return to prominence.