As the New York Rangers struggle this season, speculation intensifies about trading star winger Artemi Panarin before the March deadline. The team has yet to discuss waiving his no-movement clause, but potential destinations include the Colorado Avalanche and Florida Panthers. Meanwhile, similar buzz surrounds defensemen on the Devils and Flames.
The New York Rangers are at a crossroads with less than two months until the March 6 trade deadline. According to reports from The Athletic, Artemi Panarin tops the list of pending unrestricted free agents who could be moved, with the Rangers aiming for at least a first-round pick in return. A league source indicated that general manager Chris Drury has not yet approached the 34-year-old winger about waiving his no-movement clause, as the team assesses its performance and the market. Panarin's $11.642 million cap hit poses challenges for suitors, who must find space and meet New York's price.
Elliotte Friedman on Sportsnet's "32 Thoughts" podcast suggested possible landing spots like the Colorado Avalanche, Florida Panthers, Minnesota Wild, and Washington Capitals, though acquiring him would require significant effort. Adam Proteau of The Hockey News advised moving Panarin sooner if re-signing seems unlikely, to avoid injury risks. Other Rangers like Alexis Lafreniere, Brennan Othmann, Braden Schneider, and Vincent Trocheck could also be shopped as change-of-scenery candidates, with Othmann drawing the most interest.
Elsewhere, New Jersey Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald confirmed active trade discussions, particularly involving defenseman Dougie Hamilton and winger Ondrej Palat. "The two are highly respected among their teammates, and I will treat them with the same respect," Fitzgerald said. Potential fits for Hamilton include the Toronto Maple Leafs and Carolina Hurricanes, but salary retention would be needed for his $9 million AAV through 2027-28. The Devils must first move Palat's $6 million deal.
In Calgary, Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson's market is heating up ahead of his July UFA eligibility. Interested teams include the Boston Bruins, who reportedly offered Mason Lohrei and a first-round pick, along with the Detroit Red Wings, Ottawa Senators, Vegas Golden Knights, Anaheim Ducks, and Dallas Stars. The Flames hope to deal him before the Olympic break. For the Maple Leafs, goaltender Anthony Stolarz emerges as a trade chip once he returns from injury, potentially netting a scoring winger or defenseman.
