Artemi Panarin Would Waive to Join Oilers as Rental in Cup Chase

The Edmonton Oilers may once again find themselves linked to one of the biggest names on the trade market. According to insider Dave Pagnotta, Artemi Panarin would be willing to waive his no-move clause to join Edmonton as a pure rental if it meant chasing a Stanley Cup.

---

Pagnotta shared the insight during an appearance on Oilersnation, where he discussed Panarin’s potential openness to a short-term situation should an extension not be part of the equation. The Oilers, along with the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars, were named as the three destinations Panarin would reportedly consider if he were moved strictly as a rental.

It’s a fascinating development that immediately shifts the Oilers into the conversation for one of the most dynamic offensive players of the era.

---

A Rental, Not a Franchise Shift

One key aspect of Pagnotta’s report is that Panarin’s willingness to sign is tied to the rental situation. This is not a long-term franchise-altering sign-and-trade. Rather, it’s a veteran superstar’s desire to play for a Cup.

Panarin remains an elite playmaker and offensive driver in the NHL. Even at this point in his career, he is a player who could step onto a contender’s top six forwards and instantly upgrade them. For the Oilers, acquiring a top-six winger of this type to play alongside Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl would be a defensive nightmare for opposing clubs to deal with.

The Oilers have been an aggressive team in recent years when they believe they have a championship window. With McDavid in the prime of his career and the team needing to seize the opportunity, a trade of this type fits the team’s mentality.

Trade Framework Already Taking Shape

Pagnotta also shed some light on what the Rangers might look for in return. There was a specific mention that prospect Ike Howard would not be included. This could indicate the Rangers are seeking a return similar to the one in the recent Brock Nelson trade from the Islanders to the Colorado Avalanche.

This is an important reference because the Nelson trade was a high-end rental return without sacrificing the acquiring team’s chances at a top young core. It was a meaningful return without being a “franchise-altering” type of prospect haul.

If the Rangers are looking to make a similar type of return, the Edmonton Oilers could look to make a competitive offer without sacrificing a lot of their top young prospects. This balance is key for a team looking to compete now without sacrificing their chances long-term.

Why Edmonton Fits

From a hockey perspective, the Oilers are an obvious match. They offer elite centers, a power play that already operates at historic efficiency, and a locker room filled with players who understand the urgency of the moment. Panarin stepping into that environment would not require him to carry a franchise — only to amplify an already lethal attack.

There’s also the psychological component. Star players approaching the latter half of their careers often prioritize legacy and championship opportunities. Edmonton provides a clear, defined path to meaningful playoff games immediately.

Colorado and Dallas present similar cases, which explains why Pagnotta grouped them together. All three teams combine championship expectations with high-end skill and established playoff structures.

A Deadline Storyline to Watch

While trade rumors are often fluid, Pagnotta’s comments add real substance to what could become one of the deadline’s defining storylines. Panarin waiving his clause — even conditionally — signals that the door is open wider than many assumed.

For the Oilers, the question becomes philosophical as much as financial: how aggressively should a contender push its chips in when a superstar rental becomes available?

If Edmonton believes this is the year, a move for Panarin would represent the ultimate statement of intent.

And if Pagnotta is right, the player himself may already be on board.

Next: Could One More Oilers Trade Correct 2021 Draft-Day Mistake?