Could Artemi Panarin Be the Spark That Reignites the Blackhawks?
The Artemi Panarin sweepstakes are officially on. The New York Rangers have reportedly told their star winger they won’t be re-signing him after this season, and they’re actively exploring trade options ahead of the March 6 deadline.
That news has sent a ripple through the NHL - and one team that keeps popping up in the conversation? The Chicago Blackhawks.
Now, we’ve heard this kind of buzz before. But when it comes to Panarin and the Blackhawks, there’s real history - and potentially, real opportunity.
The Breadman’s First Run in the Windy City
Panarin’s first stint in Chicago wasn’t just good - it was electric. As a rookie, he put up 77 points in 80 games, forming instant chemistry with Patrick Kane and bringing a jolt of energy to the Blackhawks’ top six.
His sophomore season? Nearly identical, with 74 points in a full 82-game campaign.
He wasn’t just a flash in the pan - he looked like a future cornerstone.
But then came the trade to Columbus, part of a shake-up that sent shockwaves through the fan base. Panarin went on to thrive with the Blue Jackets, helping guide them through a key phase of their rebuild, and later cashed in with a massive contract from the Rangers. Fast forward to today: after seven seasons in New York, and with the Rangers shifting gears, Panarin may be on the move once again.
Could a Chicago Reunion Actually Happen?
Let’s be clear - a trade before the deadline feels like a long shot unless it comes with a contract extension. But that’s not off the table.
The Blackhawks have the cap space, the assets, and perhaps most importantly, the motivation to make a splash. If Panarin hits free agency this summer, Chicago could be a serious contender to land him.
Why would they do it? Because this is a team in transition - and a player like Panarin could accelerate that process in a big way.
A Perfect Fit for a Young Core
Right now, the Blackhawks are sitting at the bottom of the standings. That’s not surprising for a team in full rebuild mode.
But they’ve got something special brewing, starting with Connor Bedard. Even with a shoulder injury slowing him down, Bedard has shown flashes of superstardom.
He was tracking toward a 100-point pace before the setback - and he’s doing it largely on his own.
Imagine giving Bedard a running mate like Panarin. A veteran playmaker who can take pressure off the 18-year-old phenom, draw defensive attention, and create space on the ice. That’s the kind of move that doesn’t just add wins - it accelerates development.
And it’s not just Bedard who would benefit. The Hawks have a promising group of young forwards, including Oliver Moore, Frank Nazar, and Nick Lardis. Panarin’s presence would give them a veteran mentor who’s been through the grind, succeeded at every level, and knows what it takes to win.
More Than Just a Name
This isn’t about nostalgia. It’s about fit.
Panarin isn’t the same player he was during his first run in Chicago - he’s better. He’s evolved into one of the most dynamic offensive forces in the league, with elite vision, slick hands, and a knack for making the players around him better.
That’s exactly the kind of veteran talent a rebuilding team needs to stabilize the lineup and set a tone.
Plus, let’s not overlook the practical side. Chicago needs to reach the salary cap floor next season, and a Panarin contract would go a long way toward that.
But this would be more than a financial move - it would be a statement. A signal that the Blackhawks aren’t just collecting prospects and waiting for the future.
They’re building toward something - and they’re ready to start winning again.
What’s Next?
All eyes now turn to the Rangers and how they’ll handle the next few weeks. Panarin is still producing at a high level, and there’s no shortage of teams that could use a top-line winger for a playoff push. But if he makes it to free agency, don’t be surprised if Chicago makes a serious run.
A reunion with the Breadman wouldn’t just be a feel-good story - it could be the move that helps bring playoff hockey back to the United Center. And for a franchise that’s looking to turn the page and write its next great chapter, that’s the kind of player worth betting on.