The Artemi Panarin era in New York appears to be nearing its end.
According to reports, the Rangers have informed the 34-year-old star winger that they won’t be offering him a contract extension. Instead, general manager Chris Drury is expected to work with Panarin and his agent to facilitate a trade to a destination of his choosing.
Panarin, now in the final season of the seven-year, $81.5 million deal he signed in 2019, is set to become an unrestricted free agent this July. With a cap hit north of $11.6 million and a full no-move clause, any trade will require his full cooperation - and it sounds like the Rangers are committed to honoring that.
This move comes on the heels of a message from Drury to Rangers fans, signaling a shift in strategy. The front office is now eyeing a “smart and opportunistic” retool - a phrase that suggests they’re not tearing it all down, but rather reshaping the core with a long-term view in mind.
Panarin’s numbers this season are still strong - 16 goals and 51 points through 47 games - but there are signs of decline. He’s logging a career-high 20:48 in average ice time, yet his scoring rate is the lowest it’s been since the 2017-18 season. That’s not insignificant, especially for a player with a hefty price tag and a style that relies heavily on speed and creativity.
Still, let’s not forget who we’re talking about here. Panarin has been one of the most dynamic offensive talents of the past decade.
His career totals - 318 goals and 921 points in 799 games - speak to a level of consistency and production that few wingers in the league can match. Just last season, he exploded for a career-best 49 goals and 120 points, reminding everyone that when he’s on, he’s still one of the most dangerous players in the NHL.
But hockey is a business, and the Rangers are clearly thinking about the future. With a talented young core and a need for cap flexibility, moving on from Panarin now could open the door to reshaping the roster in a meaningful way.
The big question now: where does he go?
With his no-move clause, Panarin holds the cards. He’ll have a say in where he lands, and you can bet contenders will be lining up. Even if he’s not quite at his peak, he’s still a top-line playmaker who can shift the balance of power for a team looking to make a deep playoff run.
For Rangers fans, this is a bittersweet moment. Panarin brought flair, firepower, and a whole lot of highlight-reel moments to Madison Square Garden. He helped elevate the team back into relevance and gave the franchise a legitimate superstar to build around.
Now, the chapter is closing - not with a dramatic exit, but with a calculated decision aimed at what’s next.
And for Panarin? A new opportunity awaits. One more shot to chase a Cup, one more chance to show he’s still got plenty left in the tank.