Artemi Panarin trade talk explodes as Rangers explore new options

Sometimes one statement is all it takes to shift the conversation and David Pagnotta just dropped one of those on Monday.

Speaking on Daily Faceoff Live, Pagnotta didn’t dance around the issue when discussing the New York Rangers’ direction.

“The Rangers for example, if we’re not gonna compete for a Stanley Cup realistically, then what are we doing here with Artemi Panarin? Let’s take some calls, let’s see what the options are gonna be.”

It’s a blunt question, and one the Rangers may soon be forced to answer, seeing that they currently sit in seventh place in the Metropolitan Division.

Panarin remains one of the league’s most dynamic offensive players, but he’s also 33 years old, carries a massive cap hit, but he is a pending unrestricted free agent. And we haven’t heard much on an extension expect that the Russian forward isn’t keen on a discount. If the Rangers aren’t true contenders, hanging onto an elite winger simply to remain competitive in the middle of the pack may be the worst possible outcome.

This isn’t about Panarin’s play. He continues to produce at a high level and remains the engine of New York’s offense. The concern is timing. Cup windows don’t stay open forever, and the Rangers’ current roster construction has raised real doubts about whether they can realistically chase one in the near future.

That’s where Pagnotta’s comment hits hardest.

Taking calls doesn’t mean a trade is inevitable, but it does signal a willingness to confront reality. If management believes the Rangers are closer to a retool than a championship, Panarin suddenly becomes one of the most valuable trade chips in the league ahead of the March 6 deadline.

Of course, moving a player of his stature would send shockwaves through the dressing room and the fanbase. But standing still might be even riskier for general manager Chris Drury…

The Rangers now sit at a crossroads: double down on a roster that may not be enough, or explore bold options that could reshape the franchise’s future. Pagnotta simply said out loud what many around the league are already whispering…