Malkin Makes Rare Media Appearance to Discuss Ovechkin's Final Season
Evgeni Malkin normally avoids speaking with reporters after Pittsburgh's morning skates, a habit he has maintained since entering the NHL in 2006. On Monday he made an exception to comment on Alex Ovechkin, who announced that the 2026-27 season will be his last. Malkin called Ovechkin a legend and said he hopes the Capitals star stays healthy, scores goals, and enjoys his final year.
Malkin has avoided post-morning-skate media sessions throughout his NHL career, a pattern dating to 2006. The reported source of that custom is Sergei Gonchar, the veteran Russian defenseman who mentored Malkin early in Pittsburgh, providing housing, translation and guidance.
Ovechkin and Malkin were chosen first and second in 2004, respectively, and have been linked as rivals for two decades. Ovechkin’s farewell announcement came 21 years after his debut, with 929 goals and 1,575 games. Washington hosts Pittsburgh on Wednesday.
This rare comment could give fans a fresh lens on a long rivalry, especially as Ovechkin’s final season approaches. Supporters in Pittsburgh and Washington, along with Russian hockey followers, may pay closer attention to Capitals-Penguins games and league tributes. Media coverage could grow around both veterans’ legacies, while younger players may see how two stars handled careers and transitions.