As the 2025-26 NHL trade deadline approaches on March 6, interest in New York Rangers star Artemi Panarin has surged, with at least 10 teams reportedly in the mix to acquire the 34-year-old winger. The Washington Capitals and Florida Panthers are among those aggressively pursuing him, eyeing potential contract extensions. Rangers management has signaled a retool, holding Panarin out of the lineup in anticipation of a deal.
The NHL trade market is heating up just weeks before the March 6 deadline, with New York Rangers forward Artemi Panarin emerging as the most sought-after asset. According to reports from Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, 10 teams have shown interest in the Russian star, who has been sidelined by the Rangers as they prepare for a roster retool. Panarin, still a prolific offensive talent at age 34, is expected to land with a contender, potentially securing a new contract extension in the process.
The Washington Capitals are aggressively pursuing Panarin, with plans to sign him to an extension if acquired, as detailed in recent trade updates. Similarly, the Florida Panthers have been identified as a top suitor willing to commit long-term, though cap constraints may require moving players like Carter Verhaeghe or Evan Rodrigues. Other teams open to extensions include the Los Angeles Kings, San Jose Sharks, Detroit Red Wings, and Carolina Hurricanes. For rentals without extensions, interest comes from the Dallas Stars, Anaheim Ducks, Colorado Avalanche, and again the Hurricanes.
"The market for Panarin is fierce," Friedman noted during his Saturday Headlines segment, highlighting the Rangers' clear intent to trade him. Panarin's move could address needs for teams like the Capitals, who seek offensive firepower, or the Panthers, aiming to bolster their Stanley Cup defense. While exact packages remain under wraps, the buzz underscores the Rangers' shift toward rebuilding, leaving Panarin's destination a key storyline as the deadline nears.
This speculation aligns with broader deadline predictions, where teams like the Hurricanes are positioned as winners due to cap space and draft picks, while others scramble for scarce center talent.
