The New York Rangers find themselves back at a familiar crossroads - and this time, they’re not sugarcoating it. Earlier this week, general manager Chris Drury addressed fans directly with a letter announcing a retool of the roster, signaling a shift in direction for a team that’s been stuck in neutral.
If that sounds familiar, it’s because it is. The Rangers have danced this dance before, only to pivot when Artemi Panarin unexpectedly landed in their lap back in 2019.
Now, ironically, Panarin could be the key to launching this next phase.
Drury has reportedly informed Panarin that the team does not plan to re-sign him this offseason, making a trade before the deadline not just likely - but necessary. For a player of Panarin’s caliber, the market is already heating up, and the Rangers are expected to have multiple suitors lining up for his services.
Among the teams believed to be in serious talks are the Colorado Avalanche and Washington Capitals, with the Carolina Hurricanes and Dallas Stars also keeping close tabs. Florida could be an intriguing destination too, though their salary cap situation complicates things.
Let’s break down the frontrunners.
Colorado Avalanche
The Avs were interested in Panarin before he ever put on a Rangers sweater, and it’s easy to see why they’d circle back now.
With their championship window still wide open and Nathan MacKinnon in his prime, adding a dynamic winger like Panarin would give Colorado another elite weapon in an already loaded arsenal. They’ve got the pieces - and the motivation - to make a serious push.
Washington Capitals
The Caps’ interest makes plenty of sense, especially with the clock ticking on Alex Ovechkin’s legendary career.
Washington is looking to make one more deep playoff run with Ovi at the helm, and Panarin’s offensive creativity could be the spark they need. A Panarin-Ovechkin pairing on the power play?
That’s the kind of move that could energize a franchise and fanbase alike.
Carolina Hurricanes
Carolina’s always lurking when big names hit the market, and this time is no different.
After failing to retain Mikko Rantanen last season, the Canes are still searching for that elite offensive piece to push them over the top. Panarin fits the bill.
The question is whether they’re willing to go through another high-stakes rental situation. Last year, they brought in Rantanen only to flip him to Dallas when a long-term deal didn’t materialize.
Would they risk that scenario again?
Dallas Stars
Dallas, fresh off a strong postseason showing, is clearly in win-now mode.
They’ve got a veteran core, a well-rounded roster, and a front office that isn’t afraid to make bold moves. Panarin would add another layer of firepower to a team that’s already tough to handle in the playoffs.
If they see an opening, don’t be surprised if they pounce.
Florida Panthers
The Panthers are reportedly interested, and who wouldn’t be?
Panarin would thrive in their up-tempo system. But Florida’s cap situation is a hurdle, and unless they can move some money around, they may be watching from the sidelines.
Panarin’s departure feels less like a possibility and more like an inevitability at this point. The Rangers are clearly looking toward the future, and moving a veteran star like Panarin could bring in the kind of assets needed to reshape the roster. For Panarin, it’s a chance to chase a Stanley Cup with a contender.
And for the team that lands him? They’re not just getting a rental - they’re getting a game-changer. Panarin’s still one of the most electric offensive players in the league, and come playoff time, that kind of talent can tilt a series.
The clock’s ticking in New York, and the next two months could reshape not just the Rangers’ future, but the balance of power across the NHL.