As the Florida Panthers attempt to navigate life without their Finnish superstar captain Sasha Barkov this season, there is a very interesting potential replacement option on the table.
Via insider Greg Wyshynski, the Panthers may consider going after future Hall of Fame Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin to fill their first line center void this year.
This would be quite a blockbuster move by the Florida Panthers to make. In a way it would not be surprising, the club has never been shy to be aggressive when it comes to beefing up their loaded lineup.
Why would Florida make this move?
With Alex Barkov likely out for season, there is a clear hole at the top of the Cats lineup. While no one player could fully replace Barkov, a Malkin edition would work wonders in softening the blow.
The move makes logistical sense for both sides as well. Malkin reportedly has his summer home located in Miami, so the commute would be easy. And with the Panthers bringing in pieces like Brad Marchand, it would not be a new development for them to bring aboard a franchise legend from another team to load up for the Cup run.
For now, Malkin will look to help his Penguins team as he enters his 20th season with the club. In 1,214 career regular season games the Russian star has amassed 514 goals and 834 assists for 1,348 points. In the playoffs, he has touted 67 goals and 113 assists for 180 points.
