Evgeni Malkin is a #1 center in the NHL. He is a #1 center in any era of the NHL and he wants to be full-time #1 center. That will NEVER happen in Pittsburgh because this is Sid's team. From what I am told Malkin has accepted this and has even embraced it at times, but now it is becoming apparent that the Penguins are a team in need of change and an influx of talent...especially on the defensive end..
Where could Malkin go?
There aren't many teams who could pay the kind of price and players it would take to get Malkin. And be able to offer Malkin his own team to thrive on as the true #1. I have heard Winnipeg and San Jose kicking this around, but there is one team I have heard that I believe is closer to actual reality than the rest...
The Nashville Predators
What would a Malkin trade look like?
* The deal starting point is a solid top D man with attitude and skill...like a Ryan Ellis,
* The Pens also want an NHL Ready Prospect...like an Eeli Tolvanen
* The Pens also would require a#1 pick.
Would you make this deal?
I believe it would benefit both teams. Ryan Ellis is a TOUGH player to give up for sure, and would look amazing in a Penguins uniform while bringing the influx of attitude needed to get the most out of the remaining Crosby years...
Malkin would bring a LEGIT #1 Center and the biggest NHL Superstar this great hockey town has ever seen...He would also inspire some of the players on Predators who tend to be very streaky and have let Nashville down a lot the past few seasons...