Would Panarin To Kings Make Sense?

The writing is on the wall as Artemi Panarin is highly likely to be traded by the deadline this season by the New York Rangers. This is a team that needs change and GM Chris Drury recognized that as a statement was put out and Carson Soucy has already been traded. That is just the first move to come as Panarin is a UFA after the season and attempted to extend him didn't go as planned.

Panarin has been an elite talent for many years and has 205 goals and 607 points in 482 games with the Rangers over the past seven seasons. He continues to bring the offense, even though the team has struggled overall, as he has 19 goals and 57 points in 52 games.

Panarin is one of the best wingers or players in the league, and is not only a huge trade candidate for teams ahead of the trade deadline, but if he isn't signed by July 1 by whichever team acquires him, he'll be the top free agent as well.

There are a number of teams that have interest and could take a run at him, but we're going to look at the Los Angeles Kings, who seem to be on the decline and it's going to get worse.

Elliotte Friedman said, " I also think Panarin would consider LA. They need a fresh coat of paint. Kopitar's retiring."

Anze Kopitar is also currently injured. Drew Doughty hasn't recorded a point and is -11 in 12 games since being named to Team Canada. The center depth is horrible. Can Darcy Kuemper keep up his play at nearly 36 years old? And the team has a huge lack of prospects.

The Kings are 30th in the league in goals, so any offense would be greatly welcomed, no matter where it came from. But, in reality, the wing is probably the strongest part of the Kings, close with goaltending/defensive play. Overall, the forward group does need major improvements. The fourth line isn't good and the players shouldn't be in the NHL, Warren Foegele is having a very poor season, Trevor Moore and Quinton Byfield need to step up, and one of the leading scorers is 40-year-old Corey Perry.

Acquiring Panarin without a contract would be very risky for the Kings. Sure, it would help this season, but most likely to just sneak into the playoffs. For a team in the position the Kings are in, the goal is the Stanley Cup, or they should start to think about going the other direction if things get bad. If Panarin is acquired and signed, then it's full force towards the Cup.

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