Artemi Panarin Secures Two-Year Deal with Los Angeles Kings After Intense Bidding War
In a significant move that concludes weeks of speculation and intense negotiations, veteran winger Artemi Panarin has officially joined the Los Angeles Kings. The 34-year-old forward has signed a two-year contract worth $22 million, marking a pivotal moment for both the player and the franchise. This deal materialized after the New York Rangers finally decided to move their franchise player, setting off a chain of events that captivated the hockey world.
Chaotic Path to Los Angeles: Multiple Teams in Fierce Pursuit
The journey to secure Panarin was anything but straightforward. As the trade deadline approached, several teams aggressively pursued the talented winger. Initially, the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning were at the top of his wish list, with Florida holding particular appeal for the veteran forward. However, neither of these options materialized into a concrete deal, leaving Panarin to explore other opportunities.
According to insider reports from Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, discussions with these Eastern Conference teams never gained serious traction despite mutual interest. Panarin's focus then shifted to the West Coast, where the idea of reuniting with coach Joel Quenneville in Anaheim seemed promising. Yet, the Ducks refused to commit to an extension, and while the San Jose Sharks showed interest, the extent of those talks remains unclear.
Kings' Initial Hesitation and Sudden Breakdown in Talks
From the outset, the Los Angeles Kings expressed nervousness about the term of an extension for the 34-year-old winger. Despite this, the two sides were reportedly discussing a deal in the $45 million range. However, negotiations took a dramatic turn on Tuesday when the Kings abruptly walked away from the table. This move prompted Panarin's agent, Paul Theofanous, to contact several other teams to create a bidding war, quickly spreading word about offers from Carolina and another team willing to pay $60 million on a four-year deal with a $15 million cap hit.
Seattle Kraken Emerge as Aggressive Contender
The Seattle Kraken emerged as a major player in the pursuit, making an aggressive bid that caught the attention of multiple sources. Reports indicated that Seattle offered a four-year extension with an average annual value higher than Leon Draisaitl's $14 million. Kraken general manager Jason Botterill confirmed discussions with Theofanous, stating, "We had discussions with Paul Theofanous just like numerous other teams. We will continue to be aggressive at improving our team."
In addition to the Kraken, the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes remained in contention, with other teams also showing interest in the 34-year-old forward. This created a highly competitive environment, driving up the stakes and adding to the chaos of the trade deadline.
Panarin's Clear Choice and Final Agreement with Kings
Amidst the frenzy, Panarin made his intentions clear on Wednesday by informing the Rangers that he would only waive his no-movement clause for Los Angeles. This decisive move prompted the Kings to re-engage in negotiations, ultimately leading to the two-year, $22 million structure they were comfortable with. In a testament to his desire to play in California, Panarin may have left as much as $30 million on the table by opting for this shorter-term deal over more lucrative offers.
Impact on Kings' Playoff Prospects and Upcoming Schedule
The acquisition of Panarin comes at a critical juncture for the Los Angeles Kings, who currently hold a record of 23-17-14 and occupy a wildcard position in the Western Conference. As they return from the Olympic break on February 25 against the Vegas Golden Knights, followed by a crucial Pacific Division matchup against the Edmonton Oilers the following night, this signing could significantly influence their playoff positioning down the stretch. Panarin's experience and skill set are expected to bolster the team's offensive capabilities, providing a much-needed boost in their pursuit of postseason success.
This entire saga underscores the high-stakes nature of NHL trades and the strategic maneuvering involved in securing top talent. For Panarin, the move to Los Angeles represents a new chapter in his career, while for the Kings, it signals a commitment to strengthening their roster as they navigate the competitive landscape of professional hockey.
