The Artemi Panarin contract stalement is front and center for the New York Rangers with no end in sight. In talking with RG Media, former Ranger Alexei Kovalev said Panarin returning to Russia if things with the Rangers don’t work out is a strong possibility. Kovalev cited his own experience in choosing Ottawa for the money, a poor choice by his own words, instead of focusing on things that may matter more, like people, familiarity, and environment.
Panarin has had a very up and down start to his 2025-2026 season. His stat line looks fine on the surface, with 5 goals and 14 assists through 21 games this year, but his points have come in bunches and he has gone long stretches without a goal or a point.
Sergey Demidov of RG Media noted that Panarin has already turned down an Anze Kopitar-esque contract extension with lesser term and salary to remain in New York. Kopitar signed a two year, $7 million contract with LA to likely end his career with the Kings. Panarin’s camp reportedly rejected this offer immediately, leading to more trade rumors.
Panarin returning to Russia, or at least the rumors of it, will likely impact his trade value if the Rangers explore this route. A trade condition based off an extension was already probable, and now seems all but guaranteed if this comes to fruition. For now he’s a Ranger and perhaps the best trade deadline rental available. If he wants the money, he’d be the premier free agent as well. Panarin returning to Russia, or at least making it known he intends to return to Russia, would be the worst case scenario for the Rangers if they look to trade him.
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