Rangers Open the Door for Artemi Panarin Trade as Franchise Eyes a Reset
The New York Rangers are making it clear: they’re not tearing it all down, but they’re definitely changing course. In a move that signals a significant shift in direction, the team has informed star winger Artemi Panarin that he won’t be receiving a contract extension. Instead, the Rangers are prepared to work with his agent, Paul Theofanous, to explore potential trade destinations - ones that Panarin, who holds full no-move protection, would approve.
This isn’t a full-blown rebuild, but it’s certainly a retool with major implications.
General Manager Chris Drury has reportedly met one-on-one with the team’s leadership group, followed by a full team meeting, laying the groundwork for what’s next. The Rangers, currently struggling near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, are inching closer to embracing the role of sellers as the trade deadline approaches. And Panarin, one of the most dynamic offensive talents in the league, is suddenly the centerpiece of that conversation.
Let’s be clear: Panarin controls the next move. With a full no-move clause in his contract, he holds the keys to any potential deal.
That means any trade talks will need to align with his preferences - whether that’s a contender stacked with fellow Russian players, a team with cap space to accommodate his contract, or a city he and his family are comfortable with. Until he gives the green light, nothing moves.
But make no mistake, the interest is there. Around the league, teams are circling - and not just metaphorically.
Panarin would instantly become one of the most impactful players available on the trade market. Even in a tough Rangers season, his skill set remains elite: elite vision, high-end playmaking, and the ability to drive offense at five-on-five and on the power play.
That kind of talent doesn’t hit the market often, especially midseason.
What we don’t know yet is whether Panarin is ready to move on. There’s still a chance he plays out the rest of the season in New York and tests the open market in free agency. But with extension talks reportedly going nowhere earlier in the year, and the Rangers openly signaling their intent to reshape the roster, the writing may already be on the wall.
For now, the Rangers are keeping things professional - working behind the scenes, respecting Panarin’s contract rights, and trying to find a solution that works for both sides. But as the losses pile up and the trade deadline creeps closer, the pressure will only build.
This is a pivotal moment for the Rangers. Moving on from Panarin - a player who’s been a cornerstone since arriving in 2019 - would mark the end of an era. But it could also be the first step in reshaping the team’s identity and setting the table for the next core.
One thing’s for sure: the league is watching closely. And if Panarin becomes officially available, the phones in New York are going to be ringing off the hook.