The NHL world was shaken to its core when the unthinkable finally happened: Artemi Panarin, the Rangers' aging superstar, was traded during the Olympic break. With the Rangers embarking on a rebuild, it was only a matter of time before Panarin, in the final year of his contract, was moved. But here's where it gets controversial: was this a smart move for either team, or did both sides miss the mark? Let’s dive into the details and grade this blockbuster deal.
Updated Feb. 4, 2026, 3:46 p.m. ET
The trade came just as the NHL’s roster freeze took effect, leaving fans and analysts scrambling to assess the impact. The New York Rangers, clearly in rebuild mode, had little leverage in negotiations, especially since Panarin wasn’t guaranteed to re-sign. This meant any acquiring team could essentially treat him as a high-profile rental—a reality that raises questions about the long-term value of this move. And this is the part most people miss: the Rangers also agreed to retain half of Panarin’s salary for the remainder of the season, further complicating the deal’s perceived benefits.
Trade Breakdown:
- Rangers Receive: Forward Liam Greentree, a conditional third-round pick (which upgrades to a second-rounder if they win a playoff round), and a 2028 conditional fourth-round pick (if they win two rounds).
- Kings Receive: Forward Artemi Panarin.
Rangers Trade Grade:
Rangers fans were undoubtedly hoping for a more substantial return than a top prospect and a conditional pick. While Greentree is a solid player, he’s not a franchise-altering talent, and the picks feel underwhelming for a player of Panarin’s caliber. The market for an aging star without a long-term contract clearly limited their options, but this haul feels like a missed opportunity. Grade: C
Kings Trade Grade:
The Kings, desperate for offensive firepower in the competitive Western Conference, landed Panarin for a surprisingly low cost. Even as a rental, his impact could be game-changing for their playoff push. However, the real question is: Why didn’t they secure a long-term extension with Panarin, who’s 34, before finalizing the deal? While this move addresses their immediate needs, it lacks the strategic foresight that could have made it a home run. Grade: B+
UPDATE: The plot thickens! The Kings have now signed Panarin to an extension, significantly improving their end of the deal. New Grade: A-
Controversial Take: Did the Rangers sell Panarin too cheaply, or did the Kings overpay for a player past his prime? And should the Kings have pushed harder for an extension before trading for him? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this deal is far from black and white!
