Artemi Panarin Trade Rumors Heat Up as Rangers Eye a Roster Reset
The New York Rangers are in a tough spot. With a 21-25-6 record and just two wins in their last 13 games, the team has hit a wall-and the front office knows it.
President and general manager Chris Drury has already made it clear: a retool is on the table. And when a team starts reshaping its core, big names inevitably enter the trade conversation.
Right now, no name is bigger in New York than Artemi Panarin.
Despite the team’s struggles, Panarin hasn’t slowed down. He’s racked up 56 points in 51 games this season, following a monster 2023-24 campaign where he tallied 49 goals and 120 points.
At 34 years old and on an expiring deal, Panarin is the kind of elite offensive weapon that can shift the balance of power for a contending team. And with the Rangers looking to reshape their future, he’s suddenly their most valuable trade chip.
According to recent reporting, three teams are emerging as serious potential landing spots for the star winger: the Colorado Avalanche, Washington Capitals, and Florida Panthers. Each offers a different opportunity-for both Panarin and the Rangers.
Colorado Avalanche: A Familiar Fit with a Championship Window
Let’s start with Colorado. The Avalanche are rolling, sitting atop the Central Division with a 34-6-9 record.
They’re leading the league in scoring and playing tight, disciplined defense. This is a team built to win now-and Panarin could be the final piece in an already loaded lineup.
Here’s what makes the Avalanche such an intriguing fit: Panarin wouldn’t have to carry the offensive load. With Nathan MacKinnon running the show and a deep supporting cast, Panarin would have the freedom to pick his spots, exploit matchups, and elevate the power play without being the focal point of every defensive scheme.
It’s worth noting that Colorado was in the mix for Panarin back in 2019 free agency. Internal discussions about bringing him in again have reportedly resurfaced. If the Avs decide to prioritize adding a winger over a center at the deadline, this could be a reunion years in the making.
Washington Capitals: Cap Space and a Clear Need
The Capitals are another team to watch. With plenty of cap flexibility and a stash of draft picks, Washington has the resources to make a deal happen. General manager Chris Patrick has openly stated the team’s desire for a skilled winger, and Panarin checks every box.
Washington also has a mix of young talent and movable pieces that could appeal to the Rangers as they look to reshape their roster. But the biggest question here isn’t about fit or assets-it’s about Panarin’s willingness to go. He holds significant control over his destination, and whether he sees Washington as a place he wants to be remains to be seen.
Florida Panthers: Two-Time Champs with a Tight Cap
Then there’s Florida. The Panthers have won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2024 and 2025, and they’re still very much in the hunt. Adding Panarin to that championship core would be a bold move-but it’s not without complications.
The biggest hurdle is the salary cap. Florida is already pressed up against it, and that’s with captain Aleksander Barkov on long-term injured reserve. Finding a way to make the money work would require serious maneuvering.
That said, there’s a personal connection that could help smooth the transition. Panarin is close friends with Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky, and that familiarity could help him settle into a new environment quickly. For a contender looking to stay on top, chemistry matters-and this duo already has it.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Rangers have a pivotal decision to make. Panarin is still producing at an elite level, but at 34 and with free agency looming, this could be the moment to cash in. A move could bring back the kind of assets that accelerate a retool and reshape the team’s future.
Whether it’s Colorado, Washington, Florida-or a surprise team waiting in the wings-Panarin’s name will be one of the most closely watched as the market heats up. And if he’s moved, the ripple effects could be felt across the entire league.