The New York Rangers have officially signaled the end of an era. After informing 34-year-old superstar Artemi Panarin that a contract extension isn’t on the table, the “Breadman” is officially the biggest fish on the trade market. With a full no-movement clause and a March 6 deadline looming, Panarin holds the keys to his destination, but the NY Rangers aren’t going to let him go for pennies.
NHL analyst Sean O’Leary of The Score has identified two primary heavyweights in the mix: the Carolina Hurricanes and the Los Angeles Kings. Both teams are desperate for the elite playmaking Panarin provides, but what exactly does a “realistic” package look like for a player of his caliber? It’s not just about picks; it’s about high-end roster surgery and salary cap gymnastics.
Analyzing the Market: Why Carolina and LA are the Frontrunners
As someone who has followed the Rangers’ “Retool 2.0” closely, it’s clear Chris Drury wants to remain competitive while getting younger. The Hurricanes are the most logical fit. They have the cap space—managed meticulously by GM Eric Tulsky—and a glaring need for a game-breaker who can carry a power play in the postseason. On the flip side, the Kings are starving for scoring depth to support their aging core.
Here is how the trade packages likely break down:
The Carolina Hurricanes Package
The Hurricanes have the “blue-chip” assets the Rangers crave. To get Panarin at 50% salary retention, Carolina would likely have to part with:
- Jesperi Kotkaniemi: Necessary for salary matching.
- Nikita Artamonov, (F): The #3 prospect in the Hurricanes system.
- 2026 1st Round Pick: A mandatory addition for a rental of this magnitude.
The Los Angeles Kings Package
The Kings need a spark for their top six, and GM Ken Holland knows the window is closing for Anze Kopitar. Their package would look like:
- Quinton Byfield or Alex Laferriere: The Rangers will demand a young, NHL-proven roster player.
- Liam Greentree (F): A high-ceiling prospect to bolster the Rangers’ future top-six.
- 2027 1st Round Pick: Since their 2026 pick is spoken for, a future first is required.
Expert Insight: The NMC and the “Retain” Factor
The hurdle here is the $11.64 million cap hit. Even if the Rangers retain half, the receiving team needs to fit $5.82 million under the bar. My take? If the Hurricanes land Panarin, they become the instant favorite for the Cup. If he goes to LA, it’s a desperate “all-in” move to save a season that is slipping away.
Get More NHL Trade Rumors and Rangers Updates
Don’t miss a single update on the Artemi Panarin sweepstakes. For the latest New York Rangers news, trade analysis, and rumors, make sure to add nhltraderumor.com to your bookmarks. If you want to put your hockey knowledge to the test, join our Fantasy Hockey Pool for cash prizes today! Also, if you’re looking for how to watch the NY Rangers game on TV today, check our live sports schedule on the homepage. Sign up for our newsletter below to stay ahead of the deadline!
