Penguins may reconsider offering Evgeni Malkin another contract

Kyle Dubas is scheduled to meet with Evgeni Malkin's representatives in February, and the article reports Malkin has played well this season and is said to be willing to accept less pay and a reduced role.

Evgeni Malkin's future with the Pittsburgh Penguins remains unsettled as the team works through a variable season. The writer reported last summer that the Penguins did not intend to re-sign Malkin, but his current play has altered the discussion. Both sides agreed to a February check-in, when Kyle Dubas will speak with Malkin's representatives. The article notes Malkin is reportedly willing to play for less money and accept a smaller role to continue his career. Key points: - The writer previously reported the Penguins had no intention of offering Malkin a new contract. - Kyle Dubas and Malkin's representatives are scheduled to meet in February as a planned check-in. - The article reports Malkin has had a strong season and is said to be willing to take less money and a reduced role. - Malkin will turn 40 in July and has missed 12 or more games in 11 of the past 14 seasons, which the article notes as a durability concern. - The piece says Sidney Crosby and others in the organization are pleased with Malkin's play and that Crosby or his agent could press for a deal. Summary: Malkin's performance this season has reopened a discussion that was previously closed, creating a roster and salary question for the Penguins as they weigh veteran presence against longer-term youth planning. The immediate next step is the February meeting between Dubas and Malkin's representatives; further outcomes are undetermined at this time.