How Artemi Panarin is managing the contract inquiries surrounding the Rangers

Panarin Emphasizes Focus as Rangers Training Camp Opens

On the first day of training camp, Artemi Panarin echoed the thoughts of Rangers president and general manager Chris Drury regarding his upcoming unrestricted free agency. “Focus on hockey,” he stated. “Show me my best.”

The 33-year-old winger is entering the last year of a seven-year, $81.5 million contract he signed as a free agent with the Columbus Blue Jackets back in July 2019. Since then, Panarin has established himself as one of the more impactful free-agent acquisitions in recent NHL history.

Throughout his time with the Rangers, he has consistently been the top point-getter, accumulating 186 goals and 364 assists over 430 games. Notably, during the 2023-24 season, he posted a remarkable 120 points, scoring 49 goals and assisting on 71 others.

When asked if he felt the need to make any moves before the season starts, Panarin replied, “It’s obviously good for everyone to feel the security, perhaps. It’s not my first year in hockey; I’m used to this. It’s not every year like this. But for now, I won’t complain. I’m ready to work hard.”

Mika Zibanejad, now starting his first training camp without the presence of Chris Kreider, is beginning to find his footing in this new reality. “I felt it was coming. It wasn’t easy,” Zibanejad shared. “I’m not going to pretend it’s just part of the business. It’s tough losing my longest-teammate.”

Coach Mike Sullivan led a fitness-intensive session on Thursday, emphasizing hard skating as the team gears up for the season.

Reflecting on his approach, Sullivan mentioned, “I’ve told them in our offseason meetings that today was the first day. It’s my responsibility to help them become the best version of themselves.”