Rangers face a key decision on this superstar's future

The New York Rangers are entering a new stage and are considering the future of Artemi Panarin, according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman.

Panarin, 33, is entering the final year of his $81.5M contract signed in 2019. The Russian has a cap hit of $11.6M, the highest among NHL wingers.

Friedman reported the Rangers are considering a discounted extension for the veteran forward.

"I understand, at some point in the offseason, the Rangers had that conceptual conversation with Panarin: ‘Is there a way you could do for the Rangers what Kopitar did for the Kings?," he said on the 32 Thoughts Podcast.

Anze Kopitar accepted a two-year extension of $7M per season after his eight-year, $80M contract ended. That allowed the Los Angeles Kings to maintain salary flexibility without losing an elite player.

"Obviously, at this point, it hasn’t happened. I don’t know where that’s going to go, but I do know the two sides had the conversation and, currently, Panarin is unsigned," Friedman added.

Rangers must decide between Panarin and other available stars

Panarin will be an unrestricted free agent next summer, so the Rangers must decide on the next trade deadline.

His performance remains positive. Last season, he recorded 89 points in 80 games and remained one of the most dangerous playmakers in the NHL.

The Rangers must strive to emulate the Kings and reach a mutually beneficial agreement. This would allow Panarin to continue in New York, and the franchise to maintain salary flexibility, building a competitive team with a balance between veterans and youth.

Accepting less money would allow Panarin stability in New York, but could also mean rejecting more lucrative offers from other teams.

The decision comes at a turning point for the Rangers, as elite players like Connor McDavid, Kirill Kaprizov or Jack Eichel could be free agents in 2026. With the team reportedly interested in a rebuild, they must take the most convenient path.

The Rangers must soon define whether they keep their current core or accompany their prospects with other superstars available next year.