NHL Insider reveals how trade buzz around Rangers star Artemi Panarin has attracted 14 teams

As the New York Rangers are going through a significant roster shake-up, the team is preparing to move a high-profile player, and they have apparently decided to scratch star forward Artemi Panarin in a 5-2 loss to the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on Thursday. This trade move has prompted at least 14 NHL teams to acquire the Rangers star, as reported by an NHL Insider recently.

Earlier, Insiders Jeff Marek and Pierre McGuire discussed potential landing spots for New York Rangers forward Artemi Panarin, who was informed last week by general manager Chris Drury that he will not be offered a new contract by the club.

As per reports, Panarin will not play for the New York Rangers in their last two games before the NHL roster freeze for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, which begins Feb. 4, 2026. Meanwhile, the Rangers are sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with very limited possibilities to be back in form.

NHL teams express interest in signing Rangers star Artemi Panarin amidst trade buzz

The trade buzz around Artemi Panarin has attracted huge traction, with at least 14 teams expressing their interest in signing the New York Rangers star. As Panarin will not play for the New York Rangers in their last two games before the NHL roster freeze for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, due to a major roster change, several teams have rooted for the winger to acquire him.

NHL Insider Kevin Weekes reported this week that as many as 14 teams have expressed interest in Panarin, including Anaheim, Los Angeles, San Jose, Vegas, Dallas, Utah, Colorado, Minnesota, Seattle, Toronto, Carolina, Washington, Tampa Bay, and New York Islanders. “Per sources, as of today, I’m told the following have expressed interest in Panarin: ANA, LA, SJ, VGK, DAL, UT, COL, MIN, SEA, TOR, CAR, WAS, TBL, NYI. More clubs will join, and importantly player has to approve any move first,” the NHL Insider posted on Twitter.


As per reports, among them, the current Stanley Cup champions Florida Panthers, have gained traction as a team, and according to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, the Panthers sit near the top of Panarin’s personal list, due to the team’s approach and recent success. “If I had to think of a team that would probably be number one on Panarin’s list, I would say the Florida Panthers, like almost every other player in the league,” LeBrun said.

Besides, Artemi Panarin is in the final year of his seven-year, $81.5 million contract, with $11.64 million in average annual value. Now, it will be interesting to witness which team will choose Panarin with a good trade deal that a star player like Panarin highly deserves, and if it matches his expectations.


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