As the March 6th NHL trade deadline approaches, speculation is intensifying around the future of New York Rangers' star winger Artemi Panarin. The 34-year-old, in the final year of his seven-year, $81.5 million contract, has a full no-movement clause, giving him significant control over his destination. With the Rangers unlikely to offer him a new contract amidst a team retooling, Panarin's departure seems inevitable.
Amidst the swirling rumors, a potential scenario has emerged: Artemi Panarin waiving his no-move clause to join the Edmonton Oilers as a rental player for a Stanley Cup chase. This possibility arises as Panarin reportedly seeks a four- to five-year contract extension totaling $50 million with any team he is traded to. Sportsnet NHL insider Elliotte Friedman suggests teams might offer him a four-year deal at $12.5 million annually or a five-year deal at $10 million per season.
However, some teams, like the Colorado Avalanche and Anaheim Ducks, may only be able to acquire Panarin as a rental without an extension. Friedman also noted that the target appears to be reaching that $50 million total value rather than insisting on a specific term or average annual value.
Several teams have expressed interest in acquiring Panarin, including the Washington Capitals, Los Angeles Kings, San Jose Sharks, Florida Panthers, Detroit Red Wings, and Carolina Hurricanes, all of whom are reportedly willing to discuss a contract extension as part of the deal. However, Panarin rejected a trade to the Seattle Kraken. The Dallas Stars were also interested, but only if they moved on from Jason Robertson.
The Oilers, currently among the top contenders for the Stanley Cup, could be an appealing destination for Panarin, who has Stanley Cup aspirations. Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman has a prior relationship with Panarin, having signed him to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2015. While the Oilers have been Stanley Cup finalists for the past two seasons, they have not been able to secure a win. Adding Panarin could provide the extra offensive boost needed to push them over the edge.
Acquiring Panarin would not be without its challenges. The Oilers would need to make significant salary cap adjustments to accommodate his $11.642 million cap hit. This might involve trading away other players to create the necessary cap space. The Rangers are open to retaining some of Panarin's contract, which could further increase the acquisition cost.
As the trade deadline draws nearer, the coming days will reveal whether the Oilers can pull off a deal for Panarin, potentially solidifying their status as Stanley Cup favorites. The team may need to part ways with key young players and future draft picks to make the trade work.