Artemi Panarin Explains Why Kings Suited Him After Rangers Split
Artemi Panarin has officially joined the Los Angeles Kings after a successful trade with the New York Rangers. Following a significant career with the Rangers, Panarin expressed his desire to stay in the Hollywood area, stating that he “didn’t want to go anywhere else.” His move was facilitated by waiving his no-movement clause, making it easier for the trade to go through.
Details of the Trade
Panarin signed a two-year contract extension with the Kings worth $22 million. The deal followed the trade that saw the Kings acquire forward prospect Liam Greentree and a conditional draft pick from the Rangers. This marked the end of Panarin’s six-and-a-half seasons with New York, where he was a standout performer.
Reflection on His Time with the Rangers
During a recent Zoom call, Panarin reminisced about his time in New York. He shared fond memories of reaching the Eastern Conference finals and expressed pride in wearing the Rangers’ jersey. “A lot of good memories,” he noted, thanking fans for their support over the years. He acknowledged feeling uncertain with the Rangers’ contract offer, which left him unsure about his future with the team.
Personal Considerations
At 34 years old, Panarin emphasized the importance of stability for his family. With a wife and two children, he expressed a preference for a long-term commitment rather than being a temporary addition to a team. He remarked, “I didn’t want to be rented for a couple of months, then go somewhere else.”
Insights from Teammates
Seeking advice before the move, Panarin contacted fellow player Vladislav Gavrikov, who recently played for the Kings. Gavrikov provided an endorsement of the Los Angeles team, aiding Panarin’s decision. Meanwhile, in other team-related news, injured defenseman Adam Fox and goalie Igor Shesterkin are reportedly getting closer to returning to action following their injuries.
- Panarin Contract: 2 years, $22 million
- Trade Assets: Liam Greentree, conditional draft pick
- Previous Tenure: 6.5 seasons with Rangers
While focusing on his new chapter with the Kings, Panarin remains grateful for his experiences with the Rangers, highlighting that he looks forward to contributing to his new team in the competitive NHL landscape.
