Rangers Set Asking Price for Panarin, Extension To Be a Big One

The New York Rangers are using the Brock Nelson return as a starting point in Artemi Panarin trade negotiations, per NHL insider Elliotte Friedman. To some, that’s a fair comparison, but the question of an extension lingers in the background.

Knowing that Panarin will be available before the deadline, teams want to know what it will cost to acquire him. Nelson was traded to the Colorado Avalanche by the New York Islanders for defenseman Oliver Kylington, forward prospect Calum Ritchie, a conditional first-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, and a conditional third-round pick in the 2028 NHL Draft.

Any offer would have to be close to that kind of return.

One factor that could come into play is whether teams can do an extension. Elliotte named the Anaheim Ducks and Washington Capitals as teams with interest. He personally likes the Los Angeles Kings as a fit.

When it comes to the Ducks, Friedman cites the Joel Quenneville connection.

Panarin, 34, is a pending free agent and has been told by Rangers management that he will not be offered a contract extension. The organization is willing to work towards a trade and try to help send him to a destination he’d be open to joining. Panarin will be 35 at the start of next season and needs a new contract this summer.

The Panarin Extension Is Going To Be Big

Speculation is that he’s looking to play at least four or five more seasons, so a two or three-year deal isn’t on his radar. Would a team be able to justify the assets needed to get him on an extension, and one that is for so long?

As a rental, the price is lower. David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period believes that his AAV could be between $10 million and $12 million if a short-term deal. Friedman wonders if around $50 million on a five-year deal would get it done.

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