Panarin set to return to Chicago in free agency?!

Since the start of the season, we've been hearing many rumours on Artemi Panarin, questioning if the star sniper will sign a contract extension with the Columbus Blue Jackets or will test the free-agency market in the summer. The New Year won't stop the chatter... While the Jackets are likely have at least one more run at the playoffs with the dynamic winger, there isn't as much certainty as what will come to his future and where he will go next. 

Panarin currently counts for $6 million against the cap, and will earn tons of interest should he hit the open market on July 1. While many believe the New York Rangers are in the best position to sign the coveted pending free agent, The Score made a bold prediction for 2019, stating that Panarin consul return to the Chicago Blackhawks in free agency. 

"The Russian superstar headlines the unrestricted free-agent class of 2019, and we're predicting he heads back to where his career began and returns to the Chicago Blackhawks.

A source told The Athletic's Scott Powers in August that Panarin would strongly consider a return to the Windy City, where he ran rampant alongside Patrick Kane for two 70-plus-point seasons. Also, Chicago is projected to have $19.6 million in cap space for the 2019-20 season, per Cap Friendly, and the team doesn't have any prominent players to re-sign. The Blackhawks will have enough room to entice Panarin, who should get a major raise from his current $6-million cap hit."

Panarin was traded to Columbus by the Hawks in June 2017 and has led the franchise in scoring ever since, tallying 27 goals and a career-best 82 points last season and putting up 12 goals and 43 points through 37 games so far this year. 

The battle could come down between the Hawks and the Rangers, who are said to also have a very good chance at signing the free agent. Panarin is reportedly looking to play for a much bigger hockey market, and the Big Apple surely answers that need. It remains to be seen if Kane will have some significant advice for his friend as we get closer to the free agency period.