Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin will return for his 21st season after signing a one-year deal worth $5.5 million, the team announced Tuesday. The 39-year-old Malkin, who turns 40 on July 31, was set to become an unrestricted free agent before re-signing with the only franchise he has ever known.

The decision comes after the Penguins made a surprising turnaround, finishing second in the Metropolitan Division after missing the playoffs for three consecutive seasons. Despite missing 26 games, Malkin still produced 19 goals and 61 points, maintaining a 1.08 points per game average that would have given him 89 points over a full season.

With head coach Mike Sullivan now with the New York Rangers, the Penguins have secured their core with Malkin returning alongside Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang. The team retains 17 players under contract or team control with $37.04 million projected in free agency space to address roster needs before July 1.