**Insider: Rangers Could Look to Trade Artemi Panarin, 2 Other Forwards in Offseason**
As the NHL season progresses and the New York Rangers aim for both a deep playoff run and long-term success, whispers of potential offseason moves have begun circulating. One of the most intriguing rumors involves a major shake-up in the Rangers’ forward group, particularly with star winger Artemi Panarin. The 31-year-old forward, who has been a central figure in New York’s offense since joining the team in 2019, could be on the trading block this offseason, according to insider reports. Alongside Panarin, two other forwards are also rumored to be potential trade candidates.
### The Situation with Artemi Panarin
Artemi Panarin has been a cornerstone of the Rangers’ offense for the past several seasons. Known for his elite playmaking ability, Panarin has consistently been one of the most dynamic wingers in the league. His skill set, which includes exceptional vision, high hockey IQ, and scoring prowess, has made him a fan favorite in New York. In his first season with the Rangers, he posted a career-high 95 points in just 69 games, solidifying his status as one of the NHL’s top players.
However, while Panarin’s individual success has been impressive, there have been questions about his ability to elevate the team to a true Stanley Cup contender. The Rangers have failed to make it past the second round of the playoffs since his arrival, despite having a strong roster and plenty of star power. This lack of postseason success, combined with Panarin’s hefty contract (which still has three years remaining at an annual cap hit of $11.642 million), has led some to believe that it might be time for the Rangers to part ways with the Russian winger.
Panarin’s trade value remains high, despite the challenges the team has faced in the playoffs. His offensive production, particularly in the regular season, is still elite. Additionally, with many NHL teams in need of top-tier scoring talent, Panarin could attract significant interest from potential suitors. It’s clear that if the Rangers are serious about making significant changes to their roster, moving Panarin would be one of the boldest and most impactful decisions they could make.
However, trading a player of Panarin’s caliber comes with risks. The Rangers would need to find a way to replace his production, which is no easy task. Panarin’s presence on the ice is undeniable, and his leadership in the locker room cannot be overlooked either. It’s also worth considering whether Panarin would be willing to waive his no-move clause, which could complicate any potential trade talks.
### Potential Trade Candidates: Who Else Could Be Moved?
While Panarin’s name has dominated trade discussions, he is not the only forward on the Rangers’ roster who could be on the move. In fact, the Rangers could look to shake up their forward group in a more comprehensive way, and two other names that have surfaced as potential trade candidates are Filip Chytil and Alexis Lafrenière.
#### Filip Chytil: The Riser with Unfulfilled Potential
Filip Chytil’s career has been a mix of flashes of brilliance and periods of inconsistency. The 24-year-old Czech forward has shown moments of offensive upside, especially during the Rangers’ deep playoff run in 2022, where he emerged as one of the team’s most dangerous players. However, Chytil has struggled to maintain that level of play on a consistent basis. Despite flashes of brilliance, there have been stretches where he has failed to meet the expectations many had for him when he was drafted 21st overall in 2017.
Chytil has the skill set to be a top-six forward, but his production has often been erratic, leading some to believe that a change of scenery could be beneficial for both him and the team. If the Rangers decide to trade Panarin, it could be a sign that they are looking to make room for younger, more consistent talent in the top six, and Chytil may find himself on the trade block. A team in need of a center with upside could be willing to take a chance on Chytil, and the Rangers could recoup valuable assets in return.
#### Alexis Lafrenière: The Former First Overall Pick
Alexis Lafrenière’s development has been closely watched since he was selected first overall in the 2020 NHL Draft. However, while the 22-year-old winger has shown glimpses of his potential, he has not yet become the dominant force that many expected him to be at this point in his career. Lafrenière has been inconsistent at times, and while he has shown promise, he has not yet delivered the type of impact expected of a first overall pick.
The Rangers have been patient with Lafrenière, but there is increasing pressure to see a more consistent performance from the young winger. If Lafrenière continues to struggle to find his place in the Rangers’ lineup, the team may consider trading him while his value is still relatively high. Lafrenière’s potential to develop into a top-line winger is undeniable, and several teams around the league may view him as a reclamation project, hoping to unlock the full potential of the former junior star.
### What the Rangers Would Look for in Return
If the Rangers decide to trade Artemi Panarin, Filip Chytil, or Alexis Lafrenière, it would likely be part of a larger strategy to reshape their roster and improve their chances of winning a Stanley Cup. The team is still in a championship window, especially with the likes of Igor Shesterkin, Mika Zibanejad, and Adam Fox anchoring their core.
The Rangers will likely be seeking a combination of high-impact players who can contribute immediately, as well as younger assets and draft picks that would bolster their long-term prospects. A top-six forward who can produce offensively and complement the team’s current core would be a key target. Additionally, the Rangers may seek a true top-pair defenseman or a second-line center to further solidify their lineup.
Given the Rangers’ current roster, a trade involving Panarin, Chytil, or Lafrenière could bring in a significant return, potentially giving them the flexibility to make a splash in free agency or strengthen their depth chart. With the salary cap always a concern, moving one or more of these forwards could help the Rangers free up necessary cap space to address other needs.
### Conclusion
The New York Rangers are facing critical decisions about their future, and it seems increasingly likely that changes could be coming to their forward group this offseason. Artemi Panarin, despite his high level of skill and production, could be the centerpiece of a trade designed to address the team’s long-term needs. Alongside him, Filip Chytil and Alexis Lafrenière may also be on the trade block as the Rangers look to retool and strengthen their lineup.
While the Rangers’ core group is still a formidable one, their inability to break through in the postseason has raised questions about the long-term direction of the team. If they choose to move one or more of their forwards, it would be a signal that the franchise is committed to making the necessary changes to bring a Stanley Cup to New York.
