Malkin Wants 21st Penguins Season, Open Elsewhere

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin expressed a desire to return for a 21st NHL season with the team but indicated openness to signing elsewhere after the Penguins' first-round playoff loss to the Philadelphia Flyers.

The Penguins' season ended Friday in a 1-0 overtime defeat in Game 6, capping a comeback from a 3-0 series deficit. Cam York scored the winner for Philadelphia with 2:28 remaining in overtime. Malkin, who turns 40 in July, recorded 19 goals and 61 points in 56 regular-season games despite missing time with injury. He shifted from center to wing during the year and added two goals against the Flyers.

Speaking to reporters two days after the elimination, Malkin affirmed his commitment to continue playing. "I feel I can play next year for sure," he said. He acknowledged general manager Kyle Dubas's efforts to rejuvenate the roster. "It's not easy for Kyle, maybe he wants new blood here," Malkin said. "I understand business." The Penguins hold over $45 million in salary cap space entering the summer, with 16 unrestricted free agents, including Malkin, center Kevin Hayes and goaltender Stuart Skinner.

Malkin has spent his entire 20-year NHL career in Pittsburgh...