Rangers Trade Artemi Panarin to Kings
The New York Rangers have made a significant trade by sending Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings. In return, the Rangers will receive a conditional third-round pick along with prospect Liam Greentree, as reported by ESPN.
This season hasn’t been easy for the Rangers, who currently have a record of 22-28-6. The veteran left winger, who has just one year remaining on his contract, posed challenges for the team in terms of signing. His contract carries an average annual value of $11.642 million, and he will hit the free-agent market next year.
The Kings are already looking to extend Panarin, though it seems to be a complicated process given that he and his team have some control over the situation. ESPN has indicated that the expected annual value for a possible extension could be around $11 million over two years.
Interestingly, Panarin had previously expressed a desire to join the Kings, indicating that it was his preferred destination.
While there were also some other teams, like the Carolina Hurricanes, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Washington Capitals, interested in acquiring Panarin, it appears that the Kings captured his attention. At 34, Panarin is reportedly seeking a deal close to $50 million, which some teams might find difficult to accommodate.
The Kings currently sit at 23-17-14 this season, closely trailing the Pacific Division-leading Las Vegas Golden Knights with 60 points. Panarin’s interest in the team coincides with their push for a playoff spot in the Western Conference’s Pacific Division.
For Panarin, this trade marks the end of a seven-year tenure with the Rangers, during which time the team failed to secure a Stanley Cup despite having some success. He notably contributed to the Rangers during the 2023-24 season, scoring 120 points and helping the team clinch the Presidents Trophy for the best regular season record.
This season, despite the Rangers’ struggles, Panarin has recorded 19 goals, 38 assists, and a total of 57 points. His departure signifies a new chapter in his career as he joins a team with renewed hopes and a chance for playoff success.
