As the NHL season progresses, the rumor mill is churning with speculation surrounding several high-profile players and teams. The Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Artemi Panarin are currently dominating headlines as the Olympic roster freeze on February 4th rapidly approaches.
Bruins Seek Reinforcements Amidst Injury Concerns
The Boston Bruins are dealing with injury concerns surrounding key forwards Elias Lindholm and Pavel Zacha. Both players are unlikely to participate in the Bruins' upcoming outdoor game, casting a shadow over their Olympic availability. In response, coach Marco Sturm is considering giving Marat Khusnutdinov another look at center. With a full roster, the Bruins are unable to call up a skater from Providence, further complicating their options.
Maple Leafs Contemplate Changes
The Toronto Maple Leafs find themselves in a difficult position, sitting at the bottom of the Atlantic Division and facing a significant playoff deficit. With the team potentially heading towards a retool, some analysts believe acquiring Artemi Panarin to play alongside Auston Matthews could revitalize the team. However, this move would further deplete the team's depth. TSN's Bryan Hayes suggested that signing Panarin to an extension could convince Matthews that the organization is committed to contending, as Matthews' contract ends at the conclusion of the 2027-28 season.
Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reported the Maple Leafs might consider trading players with expiring contracts, potentially including Bobby McMann and/or Scott Laughton. Defenseman Brandon Carlo is also expected to draw interest from other teams. However, the Maple Leafs may not have the financial flexibility to take on Panarin's hefty $11.6 million contract without retention, and they also lack a first-round pick until 2028.
Panarin's Future in Question
Artemi Panarin is at the center of trade speculation as the trade deadline nears. The New York Rangers are reportedly seeking a significant return for the 34-year-old forward, who is expected to be dealt. According to Elliotte Friedman, Panarin is aiming for a contract extension in the range of $10-12 million per year for 4-5 years. The Rangers' asking price for Panarin is rumored to be similar to what the Colorado Avalanche paid for Brock Nelson last season, which included a first-round pick, a third-round pick, and top prospect Calum Ritchie.
Several teams have been linked to Panarin, including the Winnipeg Jets and Washington Capitals. The Jets are reportedly considering offering Panarin an extension, which could increase their chances of acquiring him. The Philadelphia Flyers have also emerged as a surprising suitor for Panarin, with the possibility of pairing him with young Russian winger Matvei Michkov. However, acquiring Panarin would be a bold move for the Flyers, who are currently trending toward mediocrity.
