Rangers Trade Artemi Panarin to Kings for Prospect and Conditional Pick
The New York Rangers have traded top forward Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings. The deal was finalized on February 4, 2026, and includes a conditional third-round draft pick and prospect Liam Greentree.
Details of the Trade
The trade brought the Kings Greentree, a 20-year-old forward, who was previously drafted 26th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft. Greentree has had a successful run in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), netting 23 goals and totaling 45 points in 34 games for the Windsor Spitfires. The Rangers secured a conditional third-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft that could turn into a second-round pick, depending on the Kings’ playoff performance.
- If the Kings win one playoff round, the pick becomes a second-round selection.
- Should they progress to two playoff rounds, the Rangers will also receive a fourth-round pick in 2028.
Contract Extension and Cap Impact
Upon joining the Kings, Panarin agreed to a two-year contract extension with an annual average value of $11 million. The Rangers will retain 50% of his salary cap hit for the remainder of the current season, equating to $5.82 million.
Panarin’s Performance and Legacy
Now 34 years old, Panarin has had a prolific career with the Rangers, playing in 482 games and securing 607 points. He leads the franchise in points per game at 1.26. During the 2023-24 season, he notably achieved 49 goals and 120 points, making it one of the best seasons in Rangers history.
Rangers’ Direction and Future
This trade stems from a strategic “retool” announced by Rangers president and GM Chris Drury. Following the letter to fans urging a change in team strategy, Drury met with Panarin to inform him that no contract extension would be offered. The Rangers also dealt defenseman Carson Soucy to the New York Islanders for a third-round pick.
Panarin’s impact on the ice is significant, particularly regarding his offensive capabilities, which he has consistently demonstrated throughout his career. While the Rangers look to develop new talent, the Kings aim to enhance their playoff chances, as they struggle offensively despite strong defensive performances.
Kings’ Offensive Challenges
The Kings rank 28th in the NHL for goals scored per game, averaging 2.57, despite being strong defensively, sitting third in goals against per game at 2.72. Adding Panarin is expected to bolster their offensive play, especially during power plays, where they have struggled with a 15.6% success rate.
Potential for Growth in L.A.
For the Kings and their fanbase, acquiring Panarin represents an aggressive push towards playoff contention. Coach Jim Hiller will need to utilize Panarin effectively within the team structure to maximize his impact. With Anze Kopitar announcing plans to retire soon and Drew Doughty in the final stages of his contract, this trade signifies a crucial moment for the organization.
As the team navigates the tight playoff race, the expectation is that the addition of Panarin will provide the Kings with the necessary boost to overcome prior playoff challenges. The current momentum suggests that both teams have embarked on new trajectories with this strategic move, aligning with their respective future aspirations.
