Artemi Panarin's 'number one team' revealed by Pierre LeBrun

Trade chatter has been heating up immensely over the past few weeks, and with the Olympic break just a few days away, there's a chance we get some big trades done in the coming days.

One player that will almost certainly be traded ahead of the 2026 trade deadline is New York Rangers superstar Artemi Panarin, who is now being held out of the lineup for trade related purposes.

As of right now, there are a few things we know: many contenders around the National Hockey League are interested in Panarin, but according to reports, he wants a long-term deal to come with any potential trade.

That has limited his potential destinations, and now, Pierre LeBrun has revealed who he believes is Panarin's dream destination, and to the surprise of nobody, it's the back-to-back Stanley Cup Champions.

According to LeBrun, the belief is that the Florida Panthers are Panarin's preferred destination, but after giving up so many assets in recent years along with long-term deals to Aaron Ekblad, Brad Marchand and Sam Bennett in the summer, it's unclear whether or not they could afford the 34-year old star.

Ultimately, if the Rangers are looking to get the best possible return, the Panthers won't be a factor, but if Panarin shuts down extension talks with any team but Florida, there's a possibility, albeit a very, very slim one, so for now, it's something to keep a very close eye on.

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Pacific team reportedly pulls out of Artemi Panarin sweepstakes due to extension cost