Furthering report confirms a major development in Artemi Panarin leaving the NHL forever

The 34-year-old Russian star enters unrestricted free agency after the 2025-26 campaign, and speculation keeps growing around whether his next stop will be Broadway or back home.

Panarin had a rocky start this year while uncertainty hung over his future, but he recently delivered a statement game: a four-point effort in a blowout win over the Boston Bruins on Wednesday.

His resurgence reminded many why the Rangers still rely on him so heavily, even amid contract drama and trade-deadline whispers.

Despite that burst of offense, the team's front office appears cautious about recommitting long-term.

General manager Chris Drury has reportedly shown no rush to negotiate a deal, and the organization seems to be weighing whether to keep Panarin into his mid-30s or let cap space free up for younger reinforcements.

Earlier in the month we reported rumblings of Panarin leaving the NHL to join the KHL, and now those rumblings are coming to fruition with a former Rangers player confirming the possibility.

If Panarin and the Rangers don't settle on an extension, a return to the KHL or another Russian league becomes a real option.

Former Ranger Alexei Kovalev recently told Russian media that such a move «may be on the table,» reflecting discussions floating among some pundits in Europe.
Blue Seat Blogs

That possibility rings loudly for a player who has already shown postseason inconsistencies. The team might find it difficult to replace Panarin's regular season production, but long-term cap flexibility and a younger core appeal to the front office.

If the rumors hold any truth, the next few months could decide if Panarin ends his Broadway chapter or heads back across the Atlantic. For now, the Ranger fans and press alike are left watching closely and waiting.