The New York Rangers have begun contract extension talks with Russian superstar Artemi Panarin. For Panarin, this could be make or break for Chris Drury as he continues to build a team worthy of a Stanley Cup. Is the $11.6 million forward worth re-signing?![Rangers | Artemi Panarin rejoint ses coéquipiers | La Presse]()
The New York Rangers and Artemi Panarin are in a rock and a hard place. For Panarin, his cap hit eats a significant chunk of space.
At $11.6 million, that could be recaptured in some fashion, by a trade, or even a buyout. It's doubtful that they'd ever do that to the former 120-point forward, but it stands to reason that even though negotiations have begun, nothing is certain.
No major announcements have been made regarding a progression in talks, and with the 2026 free agent class being one of the best in recent years, you have to wonder what GM Chris Drury's goals are.
At the time of speaking, the Rangers and Panarin have engaged in extension talks. At least, that's the sentiment expressed in an August 31 piece in The Hockey News. Panarin has been eligible to sign an extension since July 1. However, nothing has materialized.
If the piece is accurate, the Rangers are biding their time to see what happens this season. If the Rangers get off to a strong start, they could move to re-sign The Breadman. However, a slow start could dictate other terms.
If the piece is accurate, the Rangers are biding their time to see what happens this season. If the Rangers get off to a strong start, they could move to re-sign The Breadman. However, a slow start could dictate other terms.
This kind of speculation after an 89-point year by Breadman can dictate how we view the future for Panarin in a Blueshirt.
The Rangers need the best out of their top stars, and for the Russian, it's no different. After his 120-point year, he'd fall off hard, like the rest of his teammates.
The trades and drama in the news would take a toll on the locker room, and it would affect everyone on the ice.
Not even Peter Laviolette could turn the tide against the ongoing storm in Madison Square Garden.
Could The Rangers Aim for Connor McDavid?
The New York Rangers are well aware that Connor McDavid is one free agent who will be available in 2026, should he choose to test free agency, instead of remaining in Oil Country.
If the Rangers move on from Panarin and recapture some of his contract, they could have the space to sign the best player in the NHL when he walks into UFA.
