Carolina Hurricanes
Panarin Draws Line in the Sand with Rangers, 2 Teams Linked in Trade
Artemi Panarin has reportedly halted contract talks with the New York Rangers, standing firm on his price tag.
Negotiations between Artemi Panarin and the New York Rangers have reportedly hit a wall. According to Nick Kypreos of the Toronto Star and Sportsnet, the star winger has made it clear he won’t accept a pay cut from his current $11.642 million salary, effectively bringing an end to current contract discussions.
The Rangers, meanwhile, “don’t want him at that same rate again.”
Essentially, the two sides are at an impasse, and a contract standoff seems to be where this is headed, assuming it’s not already fully there. Panarin, who holds a full no-movement clause, remains in control of his future, but Kypreos notes that two teams are showing early interest.
Related: Insider Sees Ducks Making a Play for Rangers Superstar
The Wild and Hurricanes Like Panarin
We cited Elliotte Friedman’s comments on Monday that the Anaheim Ducks were part of his theory, but Kypreos believes two other teams may already be kicking tires.
Kypreos notes that if the Rangers falter and consider selling, potential trade suitors could include the Carolina Hurricanes and Minnesota Wild. The Hurricanes have been looking for a star player to add to their roster, and the Wild likes the idea of adding another punch to go along with Kirill Kaprizov.
Interestingly, Panarin is believed to prefer staying in New York, and he’s hoping the threat of testing free agency might make them come around.
The Rangers’ star is aging, but he’s still productive. The question remains how long he’ll be able to contribute at a high level before a high-dollar, long-term deal becomes a risk. His price tag right now is too rich for the Rangers, but he doesn’t seem ready to budge.
Next: Maple Leafs’ David Kampf Update After Comments to Marlies Players
More News
