The New York Rangers are expected to shake things up this offseason, and one possible move could involve trading their star forward.
This trade would see New York part ways with top star in exchange for a promising young forward, a defensive prospect, and two valuable draft picks, including the 10th overall selection.
The key pieces for the Rangers would be top veteran and the draft picks. top star, a 24-year-old entering the final year of his three-year, $17.25 million contract, would slot into New York’s top-six forward group and bring much-needed youth. Last season, he notched 12 goals and 20 assists for 32 points in 57 games.
Additionally, the Rangers would get 22-year-old Tyson Hinds, who has spent the last two seasons in the AHL and could compete for a roster spot next year.
On the other side, the Ducks would gain Panarin, a proven star entering the last year of his seven-year, $81.5 million contract. Anaheim would likely seek a contract extension as part of the deal. Panarin had an outstanding season, tallying 37 goals and 52 assists for 89 points in 80 games.
Rangers Open to Trading Panarin
After missing the playoffs, it was widely expected that the New York Rangers would consider making significant changes this offseason.
The team is reportedly willing to explore trading key players like Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and Chris Kreider, with Panarin likely to bring the highest return. NHL insider David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period shared that the Rangers are open to moving Panarin.
“In the past few days, I’ve been hearing some intriguing rumors about Artemi Panarin,” Pagnotta said. “I’m not sure if he’s fully available, but with just one year left on his contract, the team has to decide whether to stick with their current core or trade Panarin for a substantial return and use the salary cap relief, along with other assets, to reshape the roster.”
“I’m not certain if that will be their plan, and it might be early to speculate, but we can expect some interesting developments regarding how the Rangers will rebuild for next season,” he added.
Panarin has been with New York for six seasons and is a two-time NHL All-Star.
Rangers Moved Quickly to Hire New Coach
In addition to potentially making significant trades, the Rangers have brought in a new head coach.
After parting ways with Peter Laviolette following two seasons, New York hired Mike Sullivan as his replacement. Although Sullivan was recently let go by the Pittsburgh Penguins, he is still regarded as one of the top coaches in the NHL.
“As soon as Mike became available, we acted quickly and decisively to bring him on board,” said Drury. “We’re extremely excited to have reached this point, but there’s still a lot of work ahead.”
Sullivan led the Penguins to consecutive Stanley Cup championships in 2016 and 2017.