The LA Kings have made a significant move by acquiring forward Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers. In exchange, the Kings are giving up forward Liam Greentree, a conditional third-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, and a conditional fourth-round pick in the 2028 NHL Draft. The Rangers will retain 50% of Panarin's contract for the 2025-26 season. Panarin has agreed to a two-year contract with an average annual value of $11,000,000, running through the 2027-28 season.
Panarin, a 34-year-old veteran, has had an impressive career in the NHL. This season, he has played 52 games for the Rangers, accumulating 19 goals and 38 assists. This marks his 11th consecutive 50-point campaign, with 17 of those goals coming at even-strength, three as game-winners, and two on the power play. His 38 assists, 57 points, and 158 shots lead all Rangers skaters. In the 2024-25 season, Panarin had 37 goals and 52 assists, earning him his fifth 80-point season with the team and seventh overall. He was an NHL All-Star in 2023.
Panarin's NHL career began with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2015-16, where he led all rookie players in goals, assists, and points, earning the Calder Memorial Trophy and NHL All-Rookie Team honors. He made his Stanley Cup Playoff debut that season, contributing two goals and seven points. His best NHL season came in 2023-24, where he was one of four skaters to surpass 120 points, setting career-highs in goals, assists, and points. Panarin has played in 804 regular-season games across 11 seasons with the Rangers, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Blackhawks, amassing 321 goals, 606 assists, and 927 points.
Internationally, Panarin has represented Russia in five tournaments, including three IIHF Men's World Championships (winning bronze in 2016 and 2017, and silver in 2015), one IIHF Men's World Junior Championship (winning gold in 2011), and one World Cup of Hockey in 2017. His best international performance was in the 2017 IIHF World Junior Championship, where he led the tournament with 13 assists and 17 points, earning All-Star Team and 'Best Forward' honors.
Panarin's acquisition by the LA Kings adds a highly skilled and experienced forward to the team's lineup, providing depth and leadership. His ability to create scoring opportunities and contribute both offensively and defensively will be a valuable asset for the Kings.
