NHL Roundup: Panarin’s Future Uncertain, Duchene Nearing Return, and Injury Concerns in Anaheim
As the NHL season pushes into December, the contract landscape is starting to take shape for some of the league’s top veterans - but for Artemi Panarin, the picture remains cloudy. The Rangers winger is playing out the final year of his deal, and while several pending unrestricted free agents have already inked extensions, Panarin’s situation is still up in the air.
At 34, Panarin hasn’t missed a beat on the ice. He’s right around a point-per-game pace and currently shares the team lead in scoring with 26 points - a clear reminder that his game is aging like fine wine.
But when asked recently about his future, Panarin didn’t offer much clarity. Speaking with reporters, he acknowledged that he’s unsure what lies ahead, leaving open the possibility - however remote - of a return to the KHL.
That’s not to say he’s heading overseas, but it does highlight just how uncertain things are between him and the Rangers right now.
If Panarin does hit the open market next summer, he won’t be short on suitors. Even with his contract status unresolved, he remains one of the most productive and creative forwards in the league. For now, though, the focus remains on the present - and the Rangers are certainly benefitting from what he’s bringing night in and night out.
Matt Duchene Nearing Return, But Not Quite There Yet
In Dallas, the Stars have been without center Matt Duchene for nearly six weeks due to an upper-body injury, and while there’s been some progress, he’s not quite ready to return to the lineup. Duchene has been medically cleared, but he’s still dealing with lingering symptoms that are keeping him sidelined a bit longer.
Head coach Glen Gulutzan made it clear that Duchene still needs more time to get fully conditioned before he can rejoin the team. It’s a cautious but smart approach - especially for a player who’s coming off a strong 2024-25 campaign where he posted 82 points.
In limited action this season, Duchene has a goal and an assist in just four games. The Stars know what kind of impact he can have when healthy, so they’re not rushing him back before he’s truly ready.
Injury Woes in Anaheim’s Crease
The Ducks’ goaltending depth took another hit on Sunday. Petr Mrazek exited their game against the Blackhawks in the third period with what appeared to be a lower-body injury. While he was able to skate off under his own power, he didn’t return to the game - and his status moving forward remains uncertain.
That’s a tough blow for Anaheim, especially since starter Lukas Dostal is already out. With both of their top netminders sidelined, Ville Husso is now the next man up.
It’s a tough spot for the Ducks, who are trying to stay competitive while navigating a banged-up roster. Goaltending depth is always tested over the course of a season, and right now, Anaheim is feeling that pressure.
Avalanche Return Ivan to AHL After Brief NHL Stint
The Avalanche made a roster move following their win over Montreal, sending forward Ivan Ivan back to AHL Colorado. The 23-year-old was called up earlier in the week and appeared in three games, picking up an assist while averaging just over eight minutes of ice time.
Ivan’s stint was short, but it gave the Avs a chance to evaluate him at the NHL level. In the minors, he’s played 18 games this season with the Colorado Eagles, tallying two goals and four assists. For now, he’ll return to the AHL, but he’s clearly on the organization’s radar - and if injuries or lineup needs arise, he could be back in the NHL mix before long.
Bottom Line
From contract uncertainty in New York to key injuries and roster shuffles across the league, the NHL’s early-season grind is in full swing. Artemi Panarin’s future may be murky, but his production is crystal clear.
Matt Duchene is inching closer to a return, while Anaheim is scrambling to keep their crease stable. And for players like Ivan Ivan, every call-up is a chance to prove they belong.
December is here, and the storylines are only getting more intriguing.