Rangers aiming to trade Artemi Panarin in the coming hours
Artemi Panarin is about to pack his bags as the New York Rangers hunt for a massive trade before today's 3 p.m. freeze.
The Breadman is officially on the block. Drury is working the phones to ship out the 34-year-old superstar. Renaud Lavoie confirmed the Rangers want this settled within hours.
Panarin has dominated with the Rangers, leading the team in scoring every season. But the Rangers announced weeks ago that they wouldn't extend him, and we've all known a trade is coming.
He’s sitting on 19 goals and 57 points through 52 games. That’s elite, but his $11,642,857 cap hit is a premium price tag. He’s been held out for 'roster management' to keep the asset healthy.
The big ticket contract is an anchor for a team that can't win when it matters. Panarin holds a full no-movement clause. He’s reportedly interviewing teams like it’s July 1. He wants to win and get paid one last time.
Multiple Teams in the Race for Panarin
Drury has a headache finding a partner to eat that salary. The Rangers can retain 50%, dropping his hit to $5.8 million. That’s a steal for a guy who put up 120 points recently.
San Jose and Washington are in the mix with cap space, but Panarin wants a bonafide contender.
Florida and Tampa are in the race as well, but with less assets and cap space to work with. Finally, Dallas, where Panarin has expressed desire in going, have an uphill battle to make a move work.
The clock is ticking. If no deal happens by 3 p.m., the Rangers are stuck with a disgruntled star. The Breadman is ready to move on.
The Garden is ready for a new era. Fans are tired of the playoff vanishing acts. This era is likely coming to its messy end today.
Will it happen before 3:00?
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