Down to 5 teams in the Artemi Panarin trade sweepstakes

The hockey world quickly realized that a trade may be imminent when Artemi Panarin was suddenly pulled from the New York Rangers lineup just before their game against the New York Islanders on Wednesday. The decision, attributed to ‘roster management purposes,’ has set off a flurry of speculation. The move is a strategic effort to protect a key player as trade discussions heat up behind closed doors.

Following the Rangers’ 5–2 defeat, rumors escalated that a trade for Panarin might be nearing completion. Insider Vincent Z. Mercogliano hinted that the Rangers might be finalizing a deal or merely safeguarding their asset to avoid injury before the March 6 trade deadline. The situation became even more intriguing with comments from Chris Johnston suggesting that Panarin’s team is negotiating an extension as a prerequisite for any trade.

The Rangers, led by GM Chris Drury, are contemplating significant changes after a disappointing season, making Panarin’s potential departure a part of this overhaul. While Panarin seems to favour staying in the Eastern Conference, Western powerhouse like the Los Angeles Kings have shown interest.

On Thursday, Pierre LeBrun provided a significant update when he revealed that all three teams in California, the Sharks, Kings and Ducks, have reached out to Panarin’s camp, though Anaheim is believed to be out of contention since they feel an extension does not make sense for them right now.

LeBrun also noted that the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes are still in the mix, though Panarin would prefer a move to Florida. However everyone is wondering how the Panthers could make it work under the cap.

In similar fashion, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman revealed which teams he believes are still in the mix for Panarin, who is, also according to Friedman, focused on Florida. While he doubts that's a possibility, he mentioned on FAN 590 that he thinks the teams still in the mix are the Sharks, Kings and Detroit Red Wings. The goal for an extension is reportedly in the 50M range.

Standing at 34 years old, Panarin’s future is complicated by his $11.6-million cap hit and full no-movement clause, along with his pending unrestricted free agent status. These factors make the potential trade delicate, yet an extension could smooth the path for all parties involved.

As the hockey community watches closely, it remains to be seen if a deal is already in the works or if these discussions will extend until the deadline. If an agreement is indeed imminent, Panarin’s saga might conclude sooner than expected, shifting the balance within the NHL.