Rangers Set High Asking Price for Panarin, Using Nelson Trade as Blueprint
As the NHL trade deadline looms, the New York Rangers are making it clear: if you're calling about Artemi Panarin, come correct - and come heavy. According to reports, the Rangers are using last year's Brock Nelson deal as a starting point in negotiations, and that should catch the attention of any team hoping to land the star winger before March 6.
Let’s rewind for a second. When the Islanders dealt Nelson to the Avalanche, it wasn’t just a rental-for-picks swap.
Colorado sent over a first- and third-round pick plus top forward prospect Calum Ritchie. That’s a hefty return, and the Rangers are eyeing something similar - if not more - for Panarin.
And it makes sense. Nelson was a pending UFA at the time, and Panarin brings even more to the table: elite production, playoff experience, and the kind of offensive gravity that shifts defensive schemes. If the Islanders could land a package headlined by Ritchie - a 2023 first-rounder on the verge of cracking the NHL full-time - then the Rangers are absolutely within reason to demand a comparable young, NHL-ready asset in any Panarin deal.
This isn’t just about draft capital. The Rangers have been down that road before, stockpiling picks during previous retools that didn’t quite pan out the way they’d hoped. This time, they want a player who can step into the lineup and make an impact - not just in the future, but right now.
There’s another wrinkle here: Panarin’s no-move clause. He holds the cards on where he can be traded, which could narrow the field.
But there’s also the question of a possible extension. As Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman noted, some teams are already wondering if Panarin would be open to signing a new deal as part of a trade.
That would turn him from a short-term rental into a long-term cornerstone - and significantly boost the Rangers' leverage in any talks.
It’s worth noting that when Nelson was traded, there was no extension in place. He eventually signed a three-year deal with Colorado, but the trade went down without that security. If Panarin is willing to commit to a new team before the deadline, the Rangers could extract even more value in return.
Among the teams reportedly circling Panarin? The Ducks, Kings, and Capitals have all been mentioned.
But as Friedman admitted, there are likely other suitors flying under the radar. With a player of Panarin’s caliber, you can bet the phones will be ringing.
Elsewhere Around the NHL:
- Filip Chytil Returns: Former Rangers center Filip Chytil made his return to the ice Friday for the Canucks after a three-month injury absence. While speculation has swirled about the number of concussions he’s suffered, Chytil offered no clarity - simply letting his play do the talking in Vancouver’s 5-4 loss to New Jersey.
- Rangers’ Third-Period Struggles: Friday’s 3-1 loss to the Sharks raised some eyebrows - not just because of the result, but because of how it happened. The Rangers lacked urgency in the third, and while the slow start dug the initial hole, the inability to respond late was just as troubling. As John Kreiser pointed out, this team has to find a way to play with more fire - especially against bottom-tier opponents.
Quick Hits Around the League:
- Islanders Bench Top Line: Patrick Roy made a statement Friday night, benching Mathew Barzal, Anthony Duclair, and Anders Lee for the entire third period in a 5-0 loss to Buffalo. The decision came after Barzal and Duclair were caught flat-footed on a Tage Thompson breakaway goal. Message sent.
- Malkin’s Future Uncertain: Evgeni Malkin says he wants to play another NHL season, but there’s no contract offer on the table from the Penguins. What GM Kyle Dubas plans to do with the franchise icon remains unclear, but time is ticking.
- Leafs Opt for Rest: After a 6-3 loss to Vegas, the Maple Leafs canceled Saturday’s practice. Head coach Craig Berube cited a lack of energy and opted for rest over reps - a smart move in a schedule that’s been relentless.
- Pettersson Watch: As trade rumors swirl in Vancouver, Elias Pettersson’s name continues to surface. If the Canucks decide to move their top center, expect a frenzy. He’s the kind of player who doesn’t just change a team - he changes a franchise.
- Devils’ Trade Talks Slow: With Luke Hughes sidelined by a separated shoulder, trade chatter around Dougie Hamilton has cooled. The Devils may need to reassess their blue-line plans as the deadline approaches.
- Marchand Sparks Panthers: Brad Marchand returned from injury and wasted no time making an impact. Two goals - including the OT winner - and an assist in a 4-3 comeback win over the Wild. Classic Marchand.
- Bouchard Makes History: Evan Bouchard had himself a night. In his 400th NHL game, the Oilers defenseman put up a hat trick and three assists - becoming just the second blueliner in league history (joining Bobby Orr) to post six points and eight shots in a single game. Edmonton edged Washington 6-5 in OT, and Bouchard stole the show.
As the deadline draws closer, the stakes are rising. Whether it’s Panarin’s potential move, Malkin’s uncertain future, or Bouchard’s breakout, the NHL’s second half is shaping up to be a wild ride. Buckle up.