As the NHL trade deadline approaches on March 6th, the Winnipeg Jets find themselves in a precarious position, potentially sparking a significant roster shakeup. With their playoff odds dwindling, speculation is mounting about whether the Jets will become sellers, and one name consistently surfacing in trade rumors is towering defenseman Logan Stanley.
Adding fuel to the fire, reports indicate that the New York Rangers are open to trading star winger Artemi Panarin, who has a full no-movement clause in his contract. The Rangers have reportedly scratched Panarin for "roster management purposes" and will not play him again before the Olympic break on February 4th. Several teams have expressed interest in acquiring Panarin, including the San Jose Sharks, Washington Capitals, Carolina Hurricanes and Los Angeles Kings.
Could these two situations be connected? Could the Jets and Rangers be discussing a blockbuster trade that sends Panarin to Winnipeg in exchange for Stanley and other assets?
According to insider David Pagnotta, Stanley's time in Winnipeg may be coming to an end. There have been no significant contract discussions between Stanley and the Jets, making him a prime candidate to be moved before the trade deadline. Stanley's $1.25 million cap hit and his strong performance this season make him an attractive option for playoff-bound teams seeking a physical, penalty-killing defenseman. In 51 games this season, Stanley has eight goals and nine assists, putting him on pace to surpass his previous career highs.
Acquiring Panarin would provide the Jets with the elite offensive talent they have lacked. The 34-year-old winger is still a highly productive player, leading the Rangers in assists (38) and points (57) this season. However, Panarin's next contract could be a sticking point. He carries a hefty $11.6 million cap hit for the remainder of the 2025-26 season and will become an unrestricted free agent. While initial reports suggested Panarin was seeking a six- or seven-year deal, he may now be willing to consider a shorter-term extension.
Panarin has a full no-movement clause, giving him control over his destination. He is reportedly seeking a contract extension as part of any trade. This could make Winnipeg an appealing destination if they are willing to offer him the term and money he desires. Some reports suggest he's looking for a four- or five-year deal at around $10 million per season.
If the Jets are willing to meet Panarin's contract demands, they could offer a package centered around Stanley and a high draft pick. The Rangers, undergoing a retooling process, would likely be interested in acquiring a young, sizable defenseman like Stanley, as well as future assets to build for the future.
However, trading Stanley would leave a significant hole on the Jets' blue line. While Stanley has struggled to consistently live up to his potential since being drafted 18th overall in 2016, he has become a valuable asset this season. Moving him would require the Jets to find a suitable replacement or rely on their existing defensive depth.
Ultimately, whether the Jets pursue a trade for Panarin will depend on their assessment of their playoff chances and their willingness to commit to Panarin's contract demands. If they believe they can still contend, adding Panarin could provide the offensive boost they need. However, if they decide to sell, trading Stanley for future assets may be the more prudent course of action.
