The New York Rangers are heading into the NHL trade deadline with a clear message: this isn’t a year for chasing a playoff run-it’s about reshaping the roster for the long haul. With March 6 circled on the calendar, the organization is shifting its focus toward youth and future assets, signaling that some familiar faces could be on the move.
At the center of the conversation is Artemi Panarin. Once viewed as a cornerstone of the Rangers’ offense, Panarin now finds himself in trade rumors after contract talks with the team were halted.
But he’s not the only big name potentially on the block. Former No. 1 overall pick Alexis Lafrenière is also facing an uncertain future in New York.
Lafrenière was supposed to be the crown jewel of the Rangers’ 2020 draft lottery luck-a key piece of what was billed as one of the fastest rebuilds in NHL history. But outside of a breakout 2023-24 campaign, where he posted 28 goals and 29 assists, the 22-year-old has struggled to consistently meet the lofty expectations that come with being a top pick. This season, he’s managed just 10 goals and 18 assists through 51 games-a noticeable drop-off after signing a seven-year, $51.25 million extension.
That long-term deal complicates things. Lafrenière is still young, still talented, and still capable of turning the corner.
But the commitment is sizable, especially for a player whose role has slipped into the bottom six. If the Rangers decide to move him, the return has to be worth it.
And that’s a tough ask in a league where potential doesn’t always translate into value.
Lafrenière, for his part, is keeping his focus on the ice. Speaking about the trade deadline buzz, he acknowledged the uncertainty but kept things grounded.
“It always sucks losing guys, teammates, friends, but that’s the business,” he said. “We’ll see what happens.
All we can do is really just play hockey and try to win games.”
That’s the mindset you want from a player in flux-control what you can, and let the rest play out. Still, it’s telling that Lafrenière hasn’t had a sit-down with Rangers GM Chris Drury since the team released a letter to fans outlining its future direction. That silence, paired with the team’s openness to retooling, leaves the door wide open for a move.
Drury’s vision is clear: build a younger, sustainable core that can contend for the Stanley Cup down the line. And while some veterans are expected to stay put-names like Igor Shesterkin, Adam Fox, Mika Zibanejad, and J.T. Miller-others may be wearing new sweaters by the time the deadline passes.
The clock is ticking, and the Rangers have decisions to make. For Lafrenière, that means continuing to suit up and give his best effort, all while knowing his future in New York is anything but certain. Whether he stays or goes, one thing’s for sure: the next few weeks could shape not just the rest of this season, but the trajectory of the Rangers’ rebuild for years to come.