Artemi Panarin Trade Rumors: Why the Red Wings Are a Long Shot, But Not Out of the Picture
When Artemi Panarin’s name surfaces in trade chatter, the hockey world listens. The New York Rangers star is still one of the most electrifying offensive talents in the NHL, and any team with aspirations of a deep playoff run would love to slot him into their top six.
Naturally, the Detroit Red Wings are among the teams being loosely linked to Panarin. But let’s pump the brakes a bit before we start imagining him in the Winged Wheel.
Yes, Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman is known for doing his homework on every potential opportunity. And yes, there’s a history of chemistry between Panarin and Patrick Kane from their days together in Chicago that could make this an intriguing reunion. But the reality is, this situation is far more complicated than simply making a phone call and offering up a package.
The No-Trade Clause That Changes Everything
The biggest hurdle? Panarin has a full no-trade clause, and word around the league is he fully intends to use it.
That means he controls the board. He’s not going anywhere unless he wants to, and where he wants to go could hinge on a lot more than just money or ice time.
We're talking about lifestyle, teammates, Cup chances, and maybe even the presence of fellow Russian players.
So while Yzerman may have reached out to Rangers GM Chris Drury-because of course he would-it’s just one of many calls Drury is likely fielding. According to insider Elliotte Friedman, teams like Colorado, Washington, Minnesota, and Florida are in the mix. Others have floated Carolina, Tampa Bay, and Dallas as possible suitors.
What Other Teams Offer That Detroit Might Not
Let’s be honest: some of these teams can offer Panarin a more immediate shot at a Stanley Cup. Colorado is a perennial contender with a loaded roster.
Florida has hoisted the Cup in back-to-back seasons. Tampa Bay?
Imagine Panarin joining forces with Nikita Kucherov-Russian chemistry and Cup pedigree all in one.
Washington might appeal to Panarin because of Alex Ovechkin’s presence. Minnesota has Kirill Kaprizov, another fellow countryman and elite talent. These aren’t just hockey fits-they’re personal ones, too.
Where Does Detroit Fit In?
Detroit does have some attractive pieces. Kane and Panarin were magic in Chicago, and there’s no doubt the idea of rekindling that connection has at least crossed minds in the front office.
But Kane is already building something special with Alex DeBrincat, another former Blackhawks linemate, and that line is clicking. Would adding Panarin disrupt that chemistry or elevate it?
The Red Wings are on the rise, but they’re not quite at the level of the teams mentioned above in terms of Cup contention. That could be a deciding factor for a player like Panarin, who’s likely looking for a team that’s ready to win right now-not a year or two from now.
So while Detroit is in the conversation, they’re not leading it. Unless Panarin sees something uniquely appealing in the Red Wings’ situation-whether it’s Kane, the city, or Yzerman’s long-term vision-it’s hard to see them as a frontrunner.
A Name to Watch: Vincent Trocheck
Now, if we’re talking about Rangers players who could be more realistic targets for Detroit, keep an eye on Vincent Trocheck. He’s another name floating around in trade talks and might fit more cleanly into what the Red Wings are building. That’s a conversation for another day, but it’s worth bookmarking.
Around the Rink: Red Wings Notes
- Former Detroit netminder Alex Nedeljkovic found himself in rare air recently, taking part in the NHL’s first goalie fight in nearly six years. A little old-school spice in today’s game.
- Over the past seven weeks, no goaltender in the league has been more effective than John Gibson. He’s quietly been one of the most consistent performers between the pipes.
- As for Detroit’s top line, the answer to who should play alongside Kane and DeBrincat? Turns out, the solution was already on the roster. Sometimes, the best moves are the ones you don’t have to make.
Red Wings Extra: Milestones and Rising Stars
- James van Riemsdyk continues to climb the record books. He’s now the fourth active U.S.-born skater to notch 100 career power-play goals, joining elite company in Patrick Kane (140), Chris Kreider (122), and Auston Matthews (108).
- On the blue line, rookie defenseman Axel Sandin-Pellikka is making noise. His six goals tie him with Carolina’s Alexander Nikishin for second among rookie defensemen, trailing only the Islanders’ Matthew Schaefer (13). That’s impressive company and a sign of what’s to come for the Wings’ young blueliner.
For now, the Artemi Panarin sweepstakes remain wide open. Detroit may not be the favorite, but in a league where things can change with one phone call, you never say never. Just don’t be surprised if the Breadman ends up baking somewhere else.