The New York Rangers and their head coach Mike Sullivan face a scenario full of uncertainty regarding the future of their star Artemi Panarin, who will become an unrestricted free agent in 2026. The newly appointed coach has a big challenge ahead with the Big Apple franchise.
Panarin is a key piece in the Rangers‘ offense. Last season, the 33-year-old forward played 80 games, recording 37 goals and 52 assists for a total of 89 points. His offensive performance made him the team’s top scorer and one of the league leaders.
The coach and management will need to work together to ensure the continuity of a player whose offensive production has been fundamental to the team’s performance in recent seasons. Recent information has raised alarms about his future.
Will Panarin stay with the Rangers?
“We’ll see here what happens with Artemi Panarin,” said NHL insider Elliotte Friedman on the 32 Thoughts Podcast. The forward’s contract situation remains unclear, and although Friedman gave no further details, he made it clear that the team will have an important decision to make in the coming months.
Artemi Panarin #10 of the New York Rangers skates with the puck against the Washington Capitals during the third period in Game Four of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Capital One Arena on April 28, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
Panarin’s impact on the Rangers
Panarin also led the Rangers with 237 shots on goal and a shooting percentage of 15.6%. He averaged 19:41 minutes of ice time per game, reflecting his central role in the team’s offense. New York failed to make the playoffs, and rumors have started to swirl.
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The Rangers will need to present an attractive offer to keep one of their stars, who is in the later years of his career. Panarin’s current situation creates uncertainty as the team’s management and new coach Mike Sullivan prepare to make key decisions.
