Panarin has been a key contributor to the Rangers' regular season success over the past few seasons. He still has 3 years on his contract with New York and is continuing to get older. It's more than likely that at 31, his level of play is on the downturn rather than the upturn.
There are several arguments for a potential move for Panarin. The first is that this move would free up significant cap space for the Rangers. Panarin is set to make $11.6 million AAV for the next 3 years. Clearing some of that space could give the Rangers some important room to add offensive depth, something they need to make a long run into the playoffs.
New York could also give top 6 minutes to forward Alexis Lafrenière, a player who hasn't yet come into his own, but certainly has the skills to do so. Giving him a push with new depth scoring options up front gives the Rangers a long-term opportunity at the Cup.
