3 Trade Destinations for Rangers' Artemi Panarin

The New York Rangers enter 2026 three points out of the second wild-card position in the Eastern Conference, however, they have several teams to leap frog, and the Buffalo Sabres, who are red hot and occupy the last playoff spot, have three games in hand. There's going to be some major decisions to make on Broadway, and one is the trade of star forward Artemi Panarin.

Panarin, 34, is the biggest name on the rental list as he's on the trade market as a pending unrestricted free agent. The Rangers have not held any contract extension talks with the Russian winger, and a trade is expected before the Olympic break. Panarin has recorded 41 points in 41 games, is set to earn over $11 million, and holds a no-movement clause, so has all the say in the matter.

Here's three teams Panarin could be open to joining for their playoff push to the Stanley Cup:

Detroit Red Wings

The Red Wings are surprising everyone this season and enter 2026 in first place in the Atlantic Division. Detroit has the cap space, they have the trade assets, and they have one of Panarin's best friends in Patrick Kane. Detroit is a heavy favorite, and don't forget captain Dylan Larkin called out management last year for not taking a run at a big name ahead of the trade deadline.

Anaheim Ducks

The Ducks are the surprise in the West, and have an aggressive general manager in Pat Verbeek, who wants to give his team a chance to make some noise in the playoffs. The Ducks and Rangers have made multiple trades together recently, so don't be surprised to see one more this season involving Panarin.

Carolina Hurricanes

The Hurricanes have been searching for another top-six forward all season long and GM Eric Tulsky won't be shy making another bold move ahead of this season's trade deadline. The Rangers and Hurricanes have completed a big trade in the last year, and another one could be feasible. The Hurricanes have checked in on Quinn Hughes, Elias Pettersson, Steven Stamkos, and surely Panarin. Keep an eye on the 'Canes, they are big-fish hunting once again this season.

"If they're not within any reasonable distance of the playoffs by the trade deadline, it would be negligent on Chris Drury not to use Artemi Panarin"@MollieeWalkerr, @JeffMarek & @wyshynski on the Rangers’ outside-looking-in scenario

Presented by @FanDuelCanada #NYR pic.twitter.com/XwEADVIurK
— The Sheet with Jeff Marek (@thesheethockey) December 5, 2025