As the March 6th NHL trade deadline looms, the Edmonton Oilers find themselves in a familiar position: contending for a Stanley Cup and seeking that final piece to push them over the top. After back-to-back agonizing Stanley Cup Final losses, the pressure is on General Manager Stan Bowman to make the right moves. While the team has solidified its goaltending situation by acquiring Connor Ingram and Tristan Jarry, the need for a top-six winger remains a priority. Could Artemi Panarin, currently with the New York Rangers, be the answer?
At first glance, the idea of Panarin in Edmonton seems far-fetched due to his hefty $11.64 million cap hit. However, a closer examination reveals a scenario where it not only becomes possible but also strategically advantageous for the Oilers.
The Rangers have reportedly informed Panarin that they do not intend to offer him an extension and are looking to trade him by the deadline. This puts Panarin, who has a no-movement clause in his contract, in control of his destination. He can choose a team that gives him the best chance to win a championship, and the Oilers, with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, certainly fit that bill.
To make the money work, the Rangers would likely need to retain 50% of Panarin's salary, bringing his cap hit down to $5.82 million. Even then, the Oilers would need to clear additional cap space, potentially by trading players like Andrew Mangiapane. It's a complex puzzle, but not an impossible one.
What would the Oilers be getting in Panarin? A premier offensive talent who has consistently played at a point-per-game pace since 2017-18. In 2024-25, Panarin recorded 37 goals and 52 assists for 89 points in 80 games. His playmaking ability and offensive instincts would complement McDavid and Draisaitl, creating a truly dangerous top line. Moreover, his addition would create depth by pushing other players down the lineup.
According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the Rangers are seeking a return similar to what the New York Islanders received when they traded Brock Nelson to the Colorado Avalanche. That package included a first-round pick, a promising prospect, and a third-round pick. The Oilers have the assets to make such a deal, including young players like Matt Savoie or Isaac Howard and a stockpile of future draft picks.
The acquisition of Panarin would not be without risk. He is 34 years old and carries a significant cap hit. However, the potential reward of adding a player of his caliber to an already contending team may outweigh the risks. As one source notes, Panarin is looking for a longer-term contract, potentially into his age-40 season, with his next team. AFP Analytics projected his next extension to be around four years and $41 million.
Ultimately, whether or not the Oilers pursue Panarin will depend on a number of factors, including his willingness to waive his no-movement clause and the Rangers' asking price. However, the potential fit between Panarin and the Oilers is undeniable. In their quest to finally hoist the Stanley Cup, adding Artemi Panarin might make more sense than we think.
