Rangers' Artemi Panarin rejected trade to Western Conference team

The New York Rangers had a deal in place to move Artemi Panarin to the Seattle Kraken, likely for a package including Shane Wright, and for now, Panarin has rejected the move. The Russian winger has a full no-movement clause and is well within his right to make things difficult for Rangers' GM Chris Drury.

Panarin has been scratched for a couple of games now while Drury works on facilitating a deal he'll approve. There's been plenty of talk about teams wanting to complete a contract extension before finalizing a trade, and for now, it appears the Carolina Hurricanes are the only team who are willing to do a deal either way, with or without an extension.

The Dallas Stars, Anaheim Ducks, and Colorado Avalanche are all open to trades without an extension. Talks have heated up of late, and with the Olympic roster freeze kicking in on Wednesday, we'll have to wait and see if something happens before, but it's very likely a deal comes together after the games are over.

The Washington Capitals, San Jose Sharks, and Detroit Red Wings all are interested in Panarin as well, but want a contract extension in place before sending a trade package to New York that likely includes a first-round pick, and top prospect.

Panarin is signed for this season at just over $11 million, and Drury is open to retaining some of his contract, which could drive up price up even more to a four-piece package, with two draft picks, a roster player, and top prospect.

While it's unknown where exactly Panarin will end up at this time, it's a 100% confirmed, he won't be playing another game for the Rangers, or joining the Kraken for that matter.