Artemi Panarin’s Unexpected Exit from the Rangers
Just a day after being transferred from the New York Rangers to the Los Angeles Kings, Artemi Panarin opened up about his unexpected exit from the Rangers. As the 2025 offseason approached, it seemed likely that Panarin would secure a contract extension with the Rangers before potentially entering free agency in 2026. However, while several high-profile players, such as Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel, finalized their contract renewals, Panarin found himself without an agreement for the upcoming seasons.
Trade Rumors and Contract Negotiations
The Rangers’ struggles early in the season, coupled with Chris Drury‘s declaration on January 16 to reshape the team’s roster, led to rumors surrounding Panarin’s potential trade. It became clear that the organization was not inclined to extend his contract, prompting a search for trade options ahead of the March 6 NHL Trade Deadline.
Once the deal with the Kings was finalized, Panarin signed a lucrative two-year agreement worth $22 million. He explained that the Rangers had shown reluctance to engage in meaningful discussions about a renewal over the summer.
“We talked about contract a little bit, but I felt like this offer said ‘we’re not sure we want you or not.’ That’s why I’m not signed,”
he highlighted.
Realization of a Trade
The turning point for Panarin occurred during a particularly challenging stretch for New York in January, which culminated in a devastating 10-1 loss to the Boston Bruins. At this moment, he recognized that his tenure with the Rangers was nearing its conclusion.
“I realized it was possible to get traded when we started losing everything,”
Panarin reflected.
Interest in acquiring Panarin intensified after he was temporarily removed from the lineup for roster management on January 28. The Carolina Hurricanes, Washington Capitals, and Seattle Kraken were among the teams eager to land the 34-year-old star. Ultimately, Panarin exercised his no-move clause, which led Drury to restrict trade discussions to the Kings, his preferred choice—a decision influenced by conversations with fellow player Vladislav Gavrikov.
Legacy with the Rangers
Panarin’s tenure with the Rangers, which began when he signed a significant seven-year, $81 million contract in 2019, is often celebrated as an extraordinary achievement for the franchise. Over seven seasons, he amassed 205 goals and 402 assists, totaling 607 points, solidifying his legacy in New York City.
While preparing for a new chapter in Los Angeles, Panarin took time to look back at his experience with the Rangers.
“It’s a lot of good memories,”
he expressed.
“We always had a great group of guys here. A great atmosphere… I found a lot of friends here. Obviously, that’s a great organization too. The New York Rangers, an Original Six team with a huge history. I was pretty proud to play for these guys, for this jersey. Thank you very much to the fans.”
