Artemi Panarin’s Trade to the Los Angeles Kings
Artemi Panarin, who has been a prominent player for the New York Rangers since 2019, recently found himself traded to the Los Angeles Kings just before the NHL’s Olympic hiatus in February. This unexpected shift has presented him with challenges, as he confessed,
“I was thinking too much. I have trouble when I start thinking.”
Impact on the Kings
Now, with a return to his former home at Madison Square Garden approaching on Monday, he is adjusting to life in Los Angeles within the fierce competition of the Western Conference. After struggling at the bottom of the Eastern standings, Panarin’s arrival brings renewed hope for the Kings, who are eager for his skills to translate into victories.
Goaltender Darcy Kuemper shared his enthusiasm, noting,
“There’s a lot of excitement when you add a guy like that. The energy he brings boosts the entire team, and it gives us a sense that we can win every game.”
Panarin has already made a significant impact, contributing 12 points in just 10 games since joining L.A. The Kings, who were previously only three points shy of clinching a wild card spot, are now on the verge of playoff contention, trailing by just one point following a loss to New Jersey.
Team Dynamics and Coaching Changes
His addition has notably enhanced the Kings’ offensive production, with the team’s scoring rate increasing significantly. This improvement comes alongside a coaching shakeup that saw Jim Hiller let go and assistant D.J. Smith take the reins, altering the team dynamics for the better. General manager Ken Holland has also revamped the roster in preparation for the upcoming trade deadline, letting go of Corey Perry and Warren Foegele while bringing in forward Scott Laughton.
Acquisition Details
The successful acquisition of Panarin came at a cost of a conditional third-round draft choice and prospect Liam Greentree, securing a seasoned player whose scoring prowess is evidenced by his 939 points over 814 regular-season games, ranking him fifth in the league since he debuted. Panarin, who took advantage of a full trade clause to select L.A. as his new home, signed a contract extension worth $22 million over two years, keeping him with the Kings until 2028.
Panarin’s Reflections
The 34-year-old forward expressed his satisfaction with his new environment, stating,
“I tried to have no expectations. It has exceeded what I thought. The team has impressed me with its forwards, defensemen, and goaltending. I’m genuinely excited for what’s to come.”
While recognized for his offensive capabilities, Panarin has received support from his coaching staff to focus on his strengths without getting bogged down in defensive responsibilities. Coach D.J. Smith emphasized the importance of allowing Panarin creative freedom on the ice, stating,
“He can make plays that others can’t, and we want to harness that talent.”
Conclusion
Previously, Panarin consistently led the Rangers in scoring each season after signing a lucrative seven-year contract worth $81.5 million as a premier free agent in 2019. With that agreement nearing its end and the Rangers apparently headed for another playoff miss, GM Chris Drury initiated a reorganization process that ultimately included parting with Panarin. As he stated,
“They did not make any offer. That’s the difference.”
The Kings, meanwhile, provided him not only with the financial flexibility but also with a roster of talented teammates he felt could support him in a winning endeavor.
“At 34, I want to make sure I enjoy my time in a city and with a team,”
Panarin remarked, humorously noting the only thing causing him discontent now is his tax situation in California.
