Overview
- General manager Chris Drury has told Artemi Panarin he will not be extended, and the team will work with his camp as he exercises his full no‑movement clause.
- Elliotte Friedman reported the Rangers are using last year’s Brock Nelson deal as a model, targeting a top prospect, a first‑rounder and a third‑rounder, with salary retention potentially affecting the final return.
- Panarin is believed to be pursuing a multi‑year contract that could run into his age‑40 season, and interested teams may seek an extension agreement as part of any trade.
- The Capitals and Avalanche have been cited as leading suitors, the Kings are viewed as a strong fit with ample cap space and a likely extension requirement, and the Canadiens are discussed as a possible summer bidder due to cap room and a Jeff Gorton link.
- Panarin remains highly productive with 56 points in 50 games, carries an $11.6 million cap hit into the March 6 deadline, and New York could be asked to retain salary to facilitate a deal.