Could Artemi Panarin be targeted by Detroit Red Wings this season (Image Via Getty Images) As the trade deadline is around the corner, NHL Insiders speculate that the Detroit Red Wings are planning to target New York Rangers star Artemi Panarin ahead of the trade deadline. Earlier, Panarin was informed by GM Chris Drury that he won’t get a contract extension. There’s another huge link to it as the star forward already shares a bond with Red Wings winger Patrick Kane from their Chicago Blackhawks days.The New York Rangers are going through a significant roster shake-up, as the team is preparing to move a high-profile player and is actively exploring the trade market. Reports suggest that team president and general manager Chris Drury is making an effort to bring his struggling club back into form. But, NHL sources suggest that owner James Dolan might decide to part with marquee player Artemi Panarin and others if results do not improve soon.
NHL Insiders predict Detroit Red Wings might acquire forward Artemi Panarin amid Rangers’ roster change
NHL Insiders have predicted that the Detroit Red Wings are trying to acquire New York Rangers’ star forward Artemi Panarin, as the team is planning to bring significant changes to the team. According to reports, Panarin is in the final year of his seven-year, $81.5 million contract, with $11.64 million in average annual value. He’ll be a UFA in July 2026, and at his age, this could be his last major payday.Insiders Jeff Marek and Pierre McGuire discussed potential landing spots for New York Rangers forward Artemi Panarin, who was informed last week by general manager Chris Drury that he will not be offered a new contract by the club.”When you look at the landscape for Artemi Panarin, what teams jump to mind for you, Pierre?” Marek asked. “I’m going to throw one at you – the Detroit Red Wings,” McGuire said. “I think what they’ve done so far with this team and Todd McLellan there, I think they’ve amped it up. I look at that Moritz Seider/Simon Edvinsson tandem, that’s a read-built defensive tandem for playoff hockey.” (source: Yahoo.com) The Insider further added, “Turn some of those young players into a guy like Panarin, I think that’s the perfect fit.” Meanwhile, the Red Wings currently have just over $13 million in available salary cap space, which would be more than enough to absorb Panarin’s cap hit. On the other hand, Drury is unlikely to wait until the March 6 deadline, as the roster freezing week during the Olympic Games could be a possible window for the team’s management to take action. Teams can talk at that point, but nothing can officially happen until the freeze is lifted on February 22.