Overview
- In a letter to fans, GM Chris Drury said the team will retool rather than rebuild, targeting young players, draft picks and cap space.
- Multiple outlets report Artemi Panarin was informed he will not receive a contract extension, and the club is prepared to work with him on a trade if he wishes.
- Panarin has a full no‑movement clause and an $11.64 million cap hit, curbing potential destinations and tempering New York’s trade leverage.
- Sportsnet and ESPN report Drury met individually with team leaders and addressed the roster before releasing the plan to the public.
- The move comes with the Rangers last in the East and dealing with injuries to Igor Shesterkin and Adam Fox, with activity expected before the March 6 deadline and an early‑February roster freeze.