The Artemi Panarin era in New York is coming to a close. The Rangers have informed the 34-year-old winger he won’t be returning next season and will be traded before the March 6 deadline. That news has naturally sparked conversations across the league-but in Chicago, it hits a little differently.
Panarin’s NHL journey began with the Blackhawks, where he made an immediate impact as a 24-year-old rookie. His chemistry with Patrick Kane was electric, and for a brief moment, it looked like Chicago had found the next cornerstone of their offense.
But after just two seasons, the Hawks dealt him to Columbus in a move that still stings for many fans. Now, with Panarin on the block again and the Blackhawks flush with cap space, the idea of a reunion is back on the table.
So, should Chicago bring him home? Let’s break it down.
The Case For a Panarin Reunion
Let’s start with the obvious: Panarin still has game. He’s not just a big name from the past-he’s producing at a high level, and his offensive instincts remain elite. For a Blackhawks team that sits near the bottom of the standings but isn’t completely out of the wild card conversation, adding a player like Panarin could immediately raise their ceiling.
And then there’s Connor Bedard. Even though he’s only in his third season and currently sidelined with a shoulder injury, Bedard’s already shown he’s the real deal.
He won the Calder, was pacing for 100 points before the injury, and has done all of this without a true top-line winger by his side. Pairing him with a proven scorer like Panarin could unlock another level in his game.
Imagine Bedard dishing passes to Panarin on the rush, or vice versa-it’s the kind of duo that could light up the league.
There’s also the mentorship angle. Panarin isn’t just a scorer; he’s a veteran with playoff experience and a deep understanding of the game.
For young players like Oliver Moore, Nick Lardis, and future call-ups like Anton Frondell, having a guy like Panarin around could be invaluable. He’s been through the grind, knows what it takes to succeed, and could help guide this young core through the early stages of their NHL careers.
And let’s not forget the financial side. If the Blackhawks were to extend Panarin, his contract could help them reach the cap floor next season. That’s not a small thing for a rebuilding team trying to balance development with league requirements.
The Case Against Bringing Him Back
But for all the upside, there are some serious questions.
First and foremost: age. Panarin is 34.
The Blackhawks are building around a core that’s still in its early 20s. That’s a big gap-not just in years, but in where these players are in their careers.
While Panarin could help in the short term, there’s a risk that he doesn’t fit the long-term vision. And if he’s taking ice time or a roster spot from a young player ready to break through, that’s a problem.
There’s also the cost. Whether it’s a draft pick or a prospect, acquiring Panarin won’t be cheap.
And for a team that’s still likely to land a high pick in this year’s draft, those assets are gold. The Blackhawks have been intentional about their rebuild, and giving up future pieces for a veteran-no matter how talented-could undercut that progress.
General manager Kyle Davidson has shown he’s not afraid to make bold moves, but he’s also been patient. The team didn’t bring back franchise icons like Jonathan Toews or Patrick Kane, even though it would’ve been a fan favorite move.
When they did bring back Teuvo Teravainen, it made sense: he was still in his prime, filled a positional need, and fit the timeline. Panarin?
Not quite the same story.
The Bottom Line
There’s no denying the nostalgia factor. Panarin was beloved in Chicago, and the idea of him teaming up with Bedard is tantalizing. But this isn’t just about sentiment-this is about timing, fit, and long-term vision.
Right now, the Blackhawks are sitting 29th in the league. That’s not playoff territory-that’s lottery territory.
And while Panarin could make them better in the short term, the smarter play might be to stay the course. Let the young core grow.
Keep the draft picks. Build the foundation.
Then, when the time is right, strike big in the trade market.
Panarin may still have some magic left in his stick. But for Chicago, the best move might be letting that magic find a home elsewhere.