Panarin focuses on hockey as Rangers contract questions hover over him entering final season

Artemi Panarin said on the first day of Rangers training camp Thursday that his focus remains on hockey as questions about his unrestricted free agency hover over him. The 33-year-old winger is entering the final season of the seven-year, $81.5 million contract he signed with the Rangers in July 2019 after leaving the Columbus Blue Jackets. He has been one of the franchise’s most productive players since arriving, posting 186 points and 364 assists in 430 games. He also set a career high with 120 points in the 2023-24 season, including 49 goals and 71 assists in 82 games.

Asked if he would like to have something done before the season, Panarin said, "That’s obviously good for everyone, probably, to feel that security." He added that he is accustomed to the ongoing negotiations but remains focused on preparation: "Not every year. It is what it is right now. Not [complaining] about that. I’m ready to work hard."

Kreider’s absence has given Mika Zibanejad a different early-camp dynamic as he starts training camp without his longtime linemate. Zibanejad acknowledged the change, saying he sensed Kreider’s departure was coming and that it’s been an adjustment period. "I felt like it was coming. It wasn’t out of the blue," he said. "Obviously, it was tough. It’s an adjustment time. But I think as a human being, I’m not going to push those feelings away. I accept that Kreider was my longest linemate, one of my best friends. It’s weird not to see him come through these doors. For the first few weeks, kind of waiting for him to come. I’m happy as long as he’s happy."

Coach Mike Sullivan recently led a fitness-focused session, emphasizing high-intensity work as camp opens. Sullivan said he planned to push the players hard from day one, adding, "Today was the first day of that. It’s my responsibility to try to help them become the best versions of themselves."

As part of the franchise’s centennial celebration, the Rangers unveiled their centennial jersey, which will be worn at select games this season.

The team and Panarin have emphasized staying focused on the upcoming season while contract questions linger, with management and the player reiterating a commitment to competing at a high level this year. The coming weeks will determine how the club balances immediate performance with the longer-term questions surrounding Panarin’s status beyond the 2025-26 season.