NY Rangers' Stance on Artemi Panarin's Upcoming Free Agency Revealed

“Our sense is he’s in no big rush,” Baugh and Mercogliano wrote, adding that the Rangers are monitoring the broader free-agent landscape.

The free-agency field currently includes high-profile players like the Edmonton Oilers' Connor McDavid, who could redefine the market if he tests free agency, and the Minnesota Wild's Kirill Kaprizov, who could take things even further after reportedly turning down a historic eight-year, $128 million offer.

In a different article, Mercogliano noted that Kaprizov shares the same agent as Panarin, Paul Theofanous, and is close with fellow Russians Igor Shesterkin and Vladislav Gavrikov, both playing for the Rangers.

Mercogliano suggested New York could emerge as a top destination if Kaprizov reaches the market, acknowledging there is an interest in the Wild's winger.

“I’ve heard the Rangers would be on his short list, and we know Drury has growing cap space and a desire to reshape the core,” Mercogliano wrote.

Drury himself declined to provide meaningful updates on Panarin during Wednesday’s media availability, keeping negotiations quiet.

The general manager, however, touched on Panarin's importance to the organization.

“He’s a huge piece of our team and our organization,” Drury said. “He does not appear to me to be slowing down. He takes the offseason serious. He looks like he’s in great shape and ready to go.

“As far as the contract stuff, I’ve also said on record, and as you know, I don’t get into negotiations publicly. Any conversations I have with Artemi or his representation will stay that way.”

Rangers Waiting on Market Developments

Panarin’s production dipped slightly last year, though he still scored 37 goals and remained the team’s offensive leader with 89 points in 80 regular-season games.

With Panarin’s age, contract status, and the possibility of other marquee names reaching free agency, the Rangers appear willing to let the market develop before committing to extending the veteran winger.

As Baugh and Mercogliano wrote, “If any (upcoming free agent) makes it to market or comes available via trade, expect Drury to be aggressive.”