With the NHL trade deadline approaching on March 6, 2026, the New York Rangers have reportedly set their asking price for star winger Artemi Panarin. General Manager Chris Drury, who earlier announced the team would be undergoing a "retool," has made it clear that Panarin will not be offered a contract extension. This decision has opened the door for a potential trade, with several teams already expressing interest in acquiring the highly skilled forward.
According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the Rangers are using the Brock Nelson trade from last season as a benchmark for Panarin's value. In that deal, the New York Islanders traded Nelson to the Colorado Avalanche for Calum Ritchie, Oliver Kylington, a 2026 first-round pick, and a conditional third-round pick in 2028. Friedman suggests that the Rangers are looking for a similar package centered around a top prospect and a first-round pick.
The Rangers' willingness to trade Panarin stems from a desire to infuse the team with young, NHL-ready talent. While draft picks are valuable, the Rangers are particularly interested in acquiring an emerging player who can make an immediate impact. This strategy reflects a shift from their previous approach of accumulating first-round picks, which did not yield the desired results.
Panarin's full no-move clause means he has control over his destination. Several teams have been mentioned as potential suitors, including the Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles Kings, and Washington Capitals. The Ducks are an intriguing option due to Panarin's history with head coach Joel Quenneville, with whom he previously worked in Chicago.
One factor that could complicate trade talks is the possibility of Panarin signing a contract extension with his new team. While he is in the final season of his seven-year, $81.5 million contract, Panarin is reportedly seeking a longer-term deal that could take him into his age-40 season. This desire for long-term security could influence his decision on where he is willing to be traded.
It is speculated that Panarin's next contract could be a five- or six-year deal with a higher annual average value (AAV) than initially projected. Prior to the season, AFP Analytics projected a four-year, $41 million extension ($10.25M AAV). However, given Panarin's consistent production and the rising salary cap environment, his next contract could be even more lucrative.
The Rangers may have to retain some of Panarin's $11.6 million cap hit to facilitate a trade. If the acquiring team asks the Rangers to retain salary, the asking price could remain high. Conversely, if the Rangers do not retain any salary, there may be some flexibility in the return.
Ultimately, the Rangers are seeking a significant return for Panarin, who has been a key contributor to their offense. With 56 points in 51 games this season and a career-high 120 points in 2023-24, Panarin is a highly sought-after player who can make an immediate impact on any team. As the trade deadline approaches, it will be interesting to see where Panarin lands and what the Rangers receive in return.
