Artemi Panarin's Contract Demands Create Major Hurdle for New York Rangers Trade
The New York Rangers are facing significant complications in their efforts to trade star forward Artemi Panarin, as the veteran winger is reportedly demanding a staggering $50 million contract extension from any team interested in acquiring him. This development comes amidst a major roster shake-up for the Rangers, who currently sit at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with limited prospects for immediate improvement.
Panarin Scratched as Trade Talks Intensify
In a clear indication of the team's direction, the Rangers scratched Panarin during their recent 5-2 loss to the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on Thursday. The organization has confirmed that Panarin will not participate in the team's final two games before the NHL roster freeze for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, which begins on February 4, 2026.
NHL Insider Reveals Contract Demands
According to Sportsnet's NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, who revealed this information on his 32 Thoughts Podcast, Panarin and his agent Paul Theofanous are seeking a $50 million extension despite the player being 34 years old. "I think everybody understands that if you're going to get Panarin, he is going to try to hit a contract home run," Friedman stated. "And the number I was hearing, and a few teams backed me on this, was $50 million."
Extensive League-Wide Interest in Panarin
NHL insider Kevin Weekes reported this week that as many as 14 teams have expressed interest in acquiring Panarin, including:
- Anaheim Ducks
- Los Angeles Kings
- San Jose Sharks
- Vegas Golden Knights
- Dallas Stars
- Utah Hockey Club
- Colorado Avalanche
- Minnesota Wild
- Seattle Kraken
- Toronto Maple Leafs
- Carolina Hurricanes
- Washington Capitals
- Tampa Bay Lightning
- New York Islanders
Weekes emphasized that "more clubs will join, and importantly player has to approve any move first."
Florida Panthers Emerge as Front-Runners
Among the interested teams, the current Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers have gained particular traction. According to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, the Panthers sit near the top of Panarin's personal list due to their successful approach and recent championship pedigree. "If I had to think of a team that would probably be number one on Panarin's list, I would say the Florida Panthers, like almost every other player in the league," LeBrun noted.
Contractual Considerations and Trade Scenarios
Panarin is currently in the final year of his seven-year, $81.5 million contract, which carries an average annual value of $11.64 million. Friedman suggested that while the Colorado Avalanche and Anaheim Ducks might only consider Panarin as a rental player, the Dallas Stars would likely require a contract extension as part of any trade, potentially necessitating them to move on from Jason Robertson first.
The situation presents a complex challenge for both the Rangers and potential trade partners, as Panarin's substantial contract demands must be balanced against his proven offensive capabilities and veteran leadership. With the trade deadline approaching and multiple teams vying for his services, the hockey world awaits to see which franchise will ultimately secure Panarin's talents through what promises to be a significant trade deal.
