Overview
- Artemi Panarin, 34, is in the final season of a seven-year deal with an $11.64 million cap hit and is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1.
- Sportsnet reporting indicates Panarin declined a team-friendly extension and is unwilling to take a pay cut, while the Rangers are reluctant to carry a high salary into his late 30s.
- He holds a full no-movement clause, though New York could ask him to waive it before the March 6 trade deadline if the club is not solidly in a playoff position.
- Analysts have flagged the Carolina Hurricanes and Minnesota Wild as potential destinations, with questions about rental value and roster fit influencing interest.
- Kovalev told RG.org there is talk Panarin might leave the NHL for Russia, emphasizing the claim is unverified and suggesting factors like respect and comfort could weigh heavily.