The New York Rangers are spiraling, and the noise around Artemi Panarin is getting louder than the goal horn at Madison Square Garden used to be. After owner Jim Dolan issued a dreaded “vote of confidence” to GM Chris Drury—ironically, the same move that preceded the rebuild that brought Panarin to NYC—the writing may be on the wall.
But here is the problem: The “Breadman” holds all the cards.
Panarin was blunt at the recent outdoor game, telling reporters to “stop listening to people who don’t make decisions.” He reminded everyone that he has the contract, and he controls his future. If the Rangers are going to salvage value from this frustrated roster, they can’t bully him out the door.
According to Elliotte Friedman on 32 Thoughts, the Rangers might have to approach Panarin “gingerly” to see if he wants to chase a Cup elsewhere to boost his free agency value. Friedman dropped four fascinating potential landing spots that make too much hockey sense to ignore: Colorado, Minnesota, Washington, and Florida.
Here is my breakdown of the situation and where Panarin fits best.
The “Ginger” Approach
It is rare to see a player with this much leverage publicly flex it, but Panarin is right. He rejected a “Kopitar-style” extension before the season, betting on himself. Now, with the Rangers six points out and Igor Shesterkin’s timeline uncertain, New York is in a bind.
Friedman suggests that if the Rangers do decide to sell, they have to sit down with Panarin and ask, “Can we work with you?” It is in Panarin’s best interest to go somewhere and thrive rather than sink with the ship in Manhattan.
The Suitors: Who Makes Sense?
If Panarin agrees to waive his No-Move Clause (NMC), Friedman highlighted a few specific scenarios that made my ears perk up.
1. The Minnesota Wild (The Kaprizov Connection)
This is the most intriguing option. We have been speculating about Minnesota since the start of the year. Why? Kirill Kaprizov. They are both Russian superstars, and crucially, they share the same agent. The Wild are desperate to show Kaprizov they are serious about winning to keep him long-term. Pairing him with Panarin would be a massive statement.
2. The Colorado Avalanche
Friedman reminded us of a forgotten fact: Before Panarin chose New York, the Avalanche offered him a massive short-term deal (something like 4 years x $13M). We know Colorado is aggressive. Imagine Panarin’s playmaking ability on a roster that already has that much firepower. It is a terrifying thought for the rest of the Central Division.
3. Washington & Florida
Washington is always a natural link for high-profile Russian players, and Ovi is chasing history. Florida is the other team Friedman “always wonders about.” They are aggressive, they have the tax advantage, and they play a style that allows skill players to flourish.
My Take: The Olympic Break Deadline
With the Olympic break looming in February and the trade freeze that comes with it, the clock is ticking faster than we think. If the Rangers are going to make a move, they might not wait for the deadline. They might try to “fry bigger fish” now.
If I were Chris Drury, I would be making that “ginger” phone call to Panarin’s agent today. The season is slipping away, and holding onto an unhappy superstar who is walking toward free agency is a recipe for disaster.
Latest New York Rangers News & Fantasy Hockey
While the Rangers drama unfolds, don’t miss out on what is happening out West. We have the latest New York Rangers news, including trade rumors surrounding their veterans. Plus, if you think you know who will top the charts this week, join our Fantasy Hockey Pool for cash prizes! Check out the updated NHL point leaders 2025-26 on our website to get an edge on your competition. Make sure to add nhltraderumor.com to your bookmarks and sign up for our newsletter below to never miss a breaking story.
