The writing isn’t just on the wall; it’s being signed in ink. Artemi Panarin’s time with the New York Rangers is effectively over. While “The Breadman” has been an offensive dynamo for the last decade—currently posting 19 goals and 56 points in 50 games—the Rangers’ collapse into the basement of the Eastern Conference has forced GM Chris Drury’s hand.
With the team three games under .500 and officially entering a retool, Panarin is the one asset that can bring back the high-end youth this roster desperately needs. However, the complication remains his full No-Move Clause. Panarin controls the board. But according to NHL insider David Pagnotta, two specific contenders have emerged as legitimate landing spots: The Carolina Hurricanes and the Los Angeles Kings.
Both teams are desperate, but for very different reasons. And for the Rangers, the return could be franchise-altering if Drury plays his cards right. Here is exactly what those deals look like.
Analyzing the Suitors: Why Carolina and LA Make Sense
The Carolina Hurricanes are perennial contenders who always seem to lack that one pure game-breaker when the playoffs get tight. They have the cap flexibility and, more importantly, a familiarity factor with existing Russian players on the roster that could entice Panarin to waive his NMC. They added Nikolaj Ehlers, but Panarin is the tier-one superstar they’ve chased for years.
On the West Coast, the Los Angeles Kings are a team on their last legs. With Anze Kopitar and Drew Doughty battling injuries and the team fighting for a wildcard spot, they need immediate offense. They can’t rely on a rebuild; they need to win now.
The Proposed Trade Packages
If Panarin agrees to waive, here is what a realistic return looks like from both clubs to help the Rangers get younger and faster.
The Carolina Hurricanes Package
- To Carolina: Artemi Panarin (50% Salary Retained)
- To New York: D Alexander Nikishin (Rights) OR F Bradly Nadeau + 2026 1st Round Pick
My Take: This is the home run swing. If Drury can pry the rights to Alexander Nikishin loose, it’s a massive win. If not, getting a high-end shooter like Nadeau plus a 1st rounder fits the retool timeline perfectly.
The Los Angeles Kings Package
- To Los Angeles: Artemi Panarin (50% Salary Retained)
- To New York: F Liam Greentree + 2026 1st Round Pick
My Take: This is the “safe” retool package. Liam Greentree brings the size and skill combination the Rangers often lack on the wings, while it keeps the Rangers competitive next year while getting younger.
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As a Canes fan, I’d be 100% ok with the second option, but I do NOT want to lose Nikishin. That kid is going to be a star for a long time.