The New York Rangers are making a big move - or at least setting the stage for one. Star winger Artemi Panarin will be held out of the lineup for the foreseeable future, with the team citing “asset protection purposes” as they look to finalize a trade ahead of the upcoming deadline.
According to multiple reports, including the initial scoop from insider Frank Seravalli, Panarin won’t suit up for Wednesday’s game against the Islanders - and likely won’t play again before the Olympic break. The move is a clear sign: the Rangers are prioritizing long-term value over short-term results, and they’re not taking any risks with one of the league’s most valuable trade chips.
Panarin, 34, is still producing at a high level. With 19 goals and 57 points through 52 games this season, he remains one of the most dynamic offensive weapons in the NHL. But with his $11.6 million cap hit and unrestricted free agency looming this summer, the Rangers are looking to cash in before the clock runs out.
This all comes on the heels of a message from general manager Chris Drury earlier this month, in which he addressed the fanbase and acknowledged the organization is entering a retooling phase. And with the Rangers sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings - a 22-25-6 record through 53 games, 12 points out of a playoff spot - the writing is on the wall.
This season isn’t about a final push. It’s about building toward what’s next.
Panarin’s situation is unique. He holds a full no-movement clause, giving him complete control over where he ends up. But even with that leverage, he’s expected to be the most sought-after player ahead of this year’s trade deadline - and for good reason.
Since arriving in the NHL in 2015, Panarin has consistently been one of the league’s elite forwards. He made an immediate impact with the Chicago Blackhawks, winning the Calder Trophy over none other than Connor McDavid. After two high-scoring seasons in Chicago, he moved on to Columbus, where he continued to shine, before signing a blockbuster deal with the Rangers in 2019.
In New York, Panarin’s offensive brilliance has never wavered. He posted a career-high 120 points just two seasons ago, and his 927 career points in 804 games speak for themselves. Add in 21 goals and 61 points across 73 playoff appearances, and you’ve got a player with both regular season and postseason pedigree.
The Rangers have four games left before the NHL hits pause for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. They’ll face the Islanders in a home-and-home set on Wednesday and Thursday, visit the Penguins on Saturday, and host the Hurricanes on February 5. But don’t expect to see No. 10 on the ice for any of them.
Panarin’s next shift might come in a different sweater - and whichever team lands him is getting a game-changer.