Malkin Keeps Future Open as Camps Spotlight Contract and Trade Tensions
The uncertainty could reshape roster moves, prompt tougher negotiations and lead the NHL to consider rule changes in the next bargaining cycle.
Overview
- Evgeni Malkin told reporters he wants to keep playing but will decide during the season based on how his body feels after signing a one-year deal with the Penguins.
- Detroit defenseman Simon Edvinsson is attending Red Wings training camp without a new contract and is limited to individual drills while negotiations continue.
- Columbus winger Kirill Marchenko declined to discuss his future and reports say he is unlikely to sign an extension while GM Don Waddell has said he will only trade Marchenko for roster-ready help, not just picks or prospects.
- Alexander Nikishin’s agent denied reports that the defenseman would return to the KHL and criticized the Carolina Hurricanes for not moving him despite reported offers.
- Ukrainian advocates have asked the NHL to punish Alex Ovechkin for appearing in a Vladimir Putin political commercial, and deputy commissioner Bill Daly has warned that a rise in player-forced trade requests may need to be addressed in a future collective bargaining agreement.