The New York Rangers could very well trade Artemi Panarin off their roster. But before they do that, they need to know exactly what kind of team they are and where they stand this season. According to NHL insider Frank Seravallithe Rangers won’t shy away from trading Panarin if they think it’s the right thing to do. They simply don’t know that yet.
Panarin is entering the final year of his contract and will become an unrestricted free agent after this season. There is speculation that he will be moved before the trade deadline, especially considering the team’s less-than-ideal start to the season. Panarin also started slowly, but recently came out of a slump with a four-point performance against the Montreal Canadiens.
Seravalli reports that a trade could certainly happen this offseason, but also notes that the Rangers want a “really clear indication” of the team’s current strength before making any decisions. “Do I think Chris Drury and company will be afraid to trade Panarin if they don’t go anywhere? No, not even in the slightest,” he said. The NHL insider noted that New York has never historically been afraid to pull the trigger on big trades.
Maybe Panarin isn’t the problem in New York
Servalli isn’t convinced Panarin is a problem in New York. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the superstar, Seravalli remains optimistic about both Rangers and the winger there. He still believes the Rangers can hit the ground running, especially with Igor Shesterkin in goal and the team adapting to Mike Sullivan’s system. Their struggles on home ice and their offensive shortcomings won’t last forever.
“Rangers want to see how good this team is in the here and now before making a decision on Panarin,” Seravalli explained. Any trade talk will likely hinge on whether New York believes it can compete this season, making Panarin’s fate a storyline to be followed into 2025.
No immediate action is expected for the time being. The Rangers are focused on evaluating their roster, including evaluating where Panarin fits into it.
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