Both Pittsburgh's and Malkin's agent went there own ways when they understood what Malkin wanted, until
Sidney Crosby stepped in and spoke to management and demanded Malkin must re-sign and that something must be worked out. Sidney Crosby and Malkin have been teammates for many many years now and have been through thick and thin, and also multiple Stanley Cup Wins. It would have been a heart break for Crosby to see Geno's departure.