Overview
- Panarin was scratched for asset protection and is expected to miss all remaining games before the Olympic roster freeze.
- With a full no‑movement clause and an $11.6 million cap hit, he must approve any deal and holds significant leverage over his destination.
- The Rangers have permitted his representatives to explore a pre‑trade extension with interested teams, with some clubs favoring a shorter term, per reports.
- New York is seeking a major return that includes a first‑round pick and a top prospect or young roster player and is open to salary retention, according to sources.
- The roster freeze runs Feb. 4–22 and the trade deadline is March 6, and while multiple contenders are linked there is no indication a deal is imminent.