Evgeni Malkin to test free agency

The Pittsburgh Penguins were informed just after 4:00 p.m. today that center Evgeni Malkin has decided to test free agency on Wednesday. The Malkin camp led by To read this insider news, subscribe to get “Inside Access”! have completely cut off negotiations with the Penguins ahead of the start of free agency. Increments of progress in talks were made over the weekend but a sizeable gap remained between the two sides before talks ended hours ago.

A source close to the situation said To read this insider news, subscribe to get “Inside Access”! ‘excited’ to go on the free agent market for the first time in his career.

Meanwhile for the Penguins, they have some clarity entering free agency with the 36 hour + notice. One situation to monitor is the potential resigning of forward E[hide]van Rodrigues as the Rodrigues camp hasn’t closed the door on the two sides coming to an agreement before Wednesday. The door is also open to the Penguins pivoting to a Rickard Rakell extension quickly as it will take a Kyle Palmieri type contract (4×5) to keep Rakell from testing free agency.  [/hide]