On the surface, giving Artemi Panarin a contract extension when he becomes eligible on July 1 seems like a no-brainer for New York Rangers GM Chris Drury.
Panarin hasn’t just been the best free-agent signing in Rangers history he’s one of the most impactful acquisitions in New York sports history. With 550 points in 430 games, including a 120-point campaign in 2023-24 (second-highest in franchise history), Panarin ranks just behind NHL superstars Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Nathan MacKinnon in total points since arriving in New York.
Still, with just one year remaining on his seven-year, $81.5 million deal a contract that’s aged remarkably well it’s starting to feel like Panarin’s stellar tenure with the Rangers may not extend beyond the 2025-26 season.
That isn’t because of doubts about his ability to continue producing. Rather, the decision is complicated by several valid considerations, which Drury and the front office must weigh carefully especially as Panarin moves into his mid-30s.
Why the Rangers May Move On
One of the key concerns is Panarin’s playoff performance. While he’s been an elite regular-season scorer—averaging nearly 1.3 points per game—his production tends to dip in the postseason. In his 46 playoff games with the Rangers, Panarin has 35 points, and over his career, he’s tallied 69 points in 82 playoff games. That’s a noticeable drop from his regular-season output.
Though he hasn’t been ineffective, he hasn’t delivered dominant postseason performances like other stars, such as Mikko Rantanen. In the Rangers’ playoff exits in 2022 and 2024, Panarin’s underwhelming numbers stood out. Against Tampa Bay in 2022, he posted five points in six games, and last season against Florida, just four in six games including only one goal over his final nine playoff appearances.
For a team seeking a Stanley Cup, having its top offensive star underperform when it matters most is a significant concern. While Panarin shouldn’t shoulder the entire blame for the Rangers’ playoff shortcomings, his role as their offensive centerpiece naturally invites scrutiny.
At 33, it’s optimistic to expect that Panarin will suddenly elevate his postseason game in the twilight of his career. Despite his incredible run in New York, the Rangers may decide it’s wiser to let his contract run its course rather than commit to a lengthy extension that carries risk deeper into his 30s.
