Artemi Panarin’s Preseason Action
Artemi Panarin is facing an important year with the Rangers as he prepares for what could be his final season under his current contract. He hopes that participating in the preseason game on Thursday will help him gear up for his seventh year with the team.
Recently, Panarin missed a few days of practice due to an injury but is now back on the ice. After spending some time in a no-contact jersey, he’s now fully participating in practice sessions.
“I think getting some preseason games in is really crucial,” he remarked after a nearly 90-minute practice on Wednesday in Tarrytown. “It’s about timing, not just conditioning. It helps to remind me how fast the game is, where the puck is moving, all those little things before the season kicks off.”
At 33, Panarin is about to enter free agency as his seven-year deal, which has an average annual value of $11.64 million, is set to end. Since joining the Rangers as a free agent in 2019, he has led the team in scoring, racking up 186 goals and 550 points across 430 regular-season games.
However, his postseason performance has been less impressive, with just 12 goals and 35 points in 46 playoff games. The Rangers missed the playoffs entirely last season, which ultimately resulted in the firing of head coach Peter La Violette.
La Violette’s replacement, Mike Sullivan, did not share specific lineup plans going into Thursday night’s game, except to note that Captain JT Miller will be absent due to an injury.
“Panarin looks good. He looks strong,” Sullivan commented after practice. “He’s an incredible player and what he brings to the game is unique. In terms of the power play, we know exactly what he can do.”
Sullivan added, “He’s fit and healthy. Whether he plays on Thursday or not, we’re pleased with his progress. The training he’s done recently has been high-quality.”
During practice, Panarin skated alongside Vincent Trocheck and had Will Cuylle and Mika Zibanejad for company since Miller was out.
The Rangers will conclude their preseason against the Bruins on Saturday and then jump into the regular season at home versus the Penguins on Tuesday.
“We have a solid group, and our coaching staff has a track record in the NHL,” Panarin stated, reflecting on the team’s dynamics. He had a strong showing last season with 37 goals and 52 assists over 80 games. “Their playoff experience should be a huge advantage for us this year.”
Although Panarin believes it would be beneficial for him to participate in both upcoming preseason games, Sullivan seems less concerned about that requirement.
“In an ideal world, everyone would want at least one game, or even two would be better. But life isn’t perfect, so whether he gets that opportunity or not, he’ll be alright,” Sullivan explained. “He’s a skilled player who can adapt quickly, but it would definitely be good to see him in action before the real games start.”
