The New York Rangers may soon need to find a replacement for Artemi Panarin if he departs after the upcoming season — and one potential option could be Winnipeg Jets winger, who’s set to become an unrestricted free agent.
While it still appears likely that Panarin and the Rangers will stick together, there remains the possibility that New York won’t meet his next contract demands. If that happens, the team could shift its focus to Him.
He is entering the final year of his seven-year, \$50 million deal with Winnipeg, and the Jets must decide whether to extend him. They’re reportedly interested in re-signing him long-term, but with Nikolaj Ehlers already leaving this offseason, Connor’s future in Winnipeg is uncertain — and that could open the door for the Rangers.
If Connor chooses to test free agency, the Rangers might be in position to make a competitive offer — especially if Panarin’s \$11.5 million cap hit is no longer on the books.
Ideally, the Rangers would love to have both Panarin and Connor in the lineup. But if Panarin does move on, Connor could be a high-quality replacement for the 33-year-old Russian star.
NY Rangers Unlikely to Move on from Panarin
At the moment, it seems unlikely that the New York Rangers will part ways with Artemi Panarin. Widely regarded as one of the best free-agent acquisitions in NHL history, Panarin is just a season removed from putting up 120 points and could potentially return to that form if things align for the Rangers next year.
With that in mind, both Panarin and the Rangers may look to negotiate a new deal. However, reaching an agreement might prove tricky. The key issue is whether Panarin is still worth his current \$11.5 million annual salary.
On paper, he’s still likely worth at least \$10 million per year — but are the Rangers prepared to make that kind of commitment? And if so, for how long? Would a short-term deal be an option?
The answers to those questions will ultimately shape whether the Rangers choose to re-sign Panarin or start exploring alternatives on the trade market or in free agency.
Blue Shirts Could Target Connor Anyway
The New York Rangers might pursue Kyle Connor even if Artemi Panarin is re-signed. The team isn’t looking at a rebuild—instead, they’re aiming for a retool to stay competitive with their current core.
With Vezina winner Igor Shesterkin beginning a new contract and Norris Trophy defenseman Adam Fox still anchoring the blue line, the Rangers are focused on strengthening their roster, not dismantling it.
As part of that plan, New York could look to bring in Connor to boost their top-six scoring. There’s even potential for head coach Mike Sullivan to roll out a high-powered top line featuring Panarin, Connor, and J.T. Miller—a trio that could be a nightmare for opponents.
While the idea is intriguing, it may take some time before such a lineup becomes a reality.
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