After missing the postseason this past season, the New York Rangers set out to make sure that it doesn't happen again. New York wants to be competing for Stanley Cup titles, and the front office beleives that they can do so with the core in place.
But the Rangers also understand that they may want to clear salary off the books in the hope of landing a star down the line. New York is a destination spot for players, and the Rangers may need to make some tough choices with players on the roster.
One of those is star Artemi Panarin, who is scheduled to be a free agent next summer. There have been rumors of the team expecting Panarin to leave after this season, partly due to the fact that New York may not be willing to pay him big money.
NHL writer Lyle Richardson of Bleacher Report is now predicting Panarin to leave the team next summer. Richardson makes the case that he would need a big pay-cut in all likelihood to stay in New York.
"The Rangers can afford to re-sign Panarin on a short-term deal with a slight pay cut to around $10 million annually. However, his future in New York could depend on the Blueshirts' performance in 2025-26. Another missed postseason could lead to his departure to a Stanley Cup contender next July," Richardson wrote.
Panarin has been great for the Rangers since he joined the team years ago. If New York does let him walk, it would be very difficult to replace his production in the lineup.
Last season, the veteran scored 37 goals and 52 assists. Even at his age, Panarin has shown signs of producing heavily for this team.
But the Rangers also understand that he is on the wrong side of 30, and they may look to get younger. If New York does part with Panarin, they may be better off trying to trade him this year to avoid losing him for nothing in free agency.
It remains to be seen how this will all play out, but the writing seems to be on the wall for his time in New York.
