We are in full offseason mode here, which means it’s a perfect time to start reflecting on the 2022-2023 season and how each player performed. While we know many were limited by the (lack of) system run by Gerard Gallant, they are still hockey players and review is warranted. Usually we ran these in May/June, but in an attempt to keep content running in late July and August, we made a shift for the 2023 Rangers report cards.
First on the list is the best forward on the roster and the highest paid player in Artemi Panarin. Panarin led the Rangers in scoring with 92 points (29 goals), with 9 goals and 27 assists coming on the powerplay. These numbers were right in line with his career numbers, so his production stayed on track, even if it felt like it was a bit underwhelming.
Perhaps the perception that his production was underwhelming comes from his xGF/60, which isn’t that impressive considering his point totals. From a statistical standpoint, Panarin exceeded his offense driving ability all season. But this doesn’t account for elite skill, which Panarin clearly has. Still, his xGAR was higher than his statistical output, so let’s call this a wash, shall we?
The perception that Panarin isn’t “worth the money,” which is patently absurd, is with his playoff production. Two assists in seven games against the Devils will do that, and it’s a fair criticism for this year’s playoffs. We knew that if the Rangers lost, we’d be blaming the stars, and Panarin deserves that blame. Still, this appears to be a blip as before this season, he was close to a point per game in the playoffs.
But the focus is on this season. Panarin is the guy that makes the offense run. and he did so last season. The Rangers are still a playoff team without him, but a fringe one at best. He’s the most important non-Adma Fox skater on the team, and his offensive output, both in play driving and score sheet stats.
2023 Grade: A
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