Six Years Later: The Truth About Artemi Panarin’s Blockbuster Rangers Deal Finally Revealed…Read More…

Six Years Later: The Truth About Artemi Panarin’s Blockbuster Rangers Deal Finally Revealed…Read More…

When Artemi Panarin signed with the New York Rangers in the summer of 2019, it wasn’t just a transaction—it was a declaration. The Rangers, then in the midst of a rebuild, had sent a clear message to the hockey world: their rebuild wasn’t going to be a drawn-out process, and they were ready to accelerate toward contention. The contract, a mammoth seven-year, $81.5 million deal, made Panarin one of the highest-paid players in the NHL at the time.

Now, six seasons into the deal, the verdict on whether it has been worth it is finally coming into focus. Has Panarin delivered the superstar production to justify the price tag? Has his presence elevated the Rangers into a legitimate contender? And perhaps most importantly, what does the Panarin era signify for the future of the franchise?

A Superstar Arrives in Manhattan

Panarin arrived in New York with the reputation of being a game-changer. After breakout years in Chicago and Columbus, he was considered one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers and offensive weapons. Signing him wasn’t just about adding goals and assists—it was about adding credibility to a team still navigating through its rebuild.

The Russian winger wasted no time making his presence felt. In his very first season with the Rangers, 2019–20, Panarin exploded for 95 points in just 69 games, finishing third in Hart Trophy voting despite the pandemic-shortened campaign. His ability to control the pace of play, create space for teammates, and shine under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden instantly made him a fan favorite and the centerpiece of the Rangers’ resurgence.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Fast forward to 2025, and Panarin’s statistical impact is undeniable. Through six seasons with the Rangers, he has consistently ranked among the NHL’s top point producers. Multiple 90+ point campaigns, clutch performances in the regular season, and stretches of sheer dominance have cemented his status as one of the franchise’s most important players in the modern era.

Critics often point to his hefty cap hit—over $11.6 million annually—as a burden. But when stacked against other elite contracts across the league, Panarin’s production has more than held up. Few players with comparable salaries have matched his consistency year after year. Unlike some high-profile free agent signings that quickly soured, Panarin’s deal has provided exactly what the Rangers paid for: elite offensive firepower.

The Playoff Question

Yet, no discussion of Panarin’s tenure is complete without addressing the playoff narrative. While Panarin has dazzled in the regular season, his postseason performances have been more uneven. His critics argue that a true superstar needs to dominate when the stakes are highest, and there have been series where Panarin hasn’t lived up to his regular-season brilliance.

Still, it’s important to note the Rangers’ playoff context. Since Panarin’s arrival, the team has steadily improved, reaching the Eastern Conference Final in 2022 and returning to the postseason multiple times. Panarin has delivered key goals in critical games, even if not at the same rate as his regular-season scoring. For the Rangers, his presence alone has elevated their competitive window.

Changing the Franchise’s Trajectory

Beyond stats and playoff debates, Panarin’s signing changed the Rangers’ trajectory in ways that go beyond the scoresheet. He attracted attention back to Madison Square Garden, helped lure other talent, and provided stability for a young core that has included players like Mika Zibanejad, Adam Fox, and Igor Shesterkin.

The Rangers of 2019 were a team trying to climb out of mediocrity. The Rangers of 2025 are a perennial contender, with Panarin at the heart of that transformation. His presence forced the organization to commit fully to winning and pushed management to surround him with the right supporting cast.

Was It Worth It?

So, six years later, was the Panarin contract worth it? The answer is a resounding yes—though with caveats. From a purely financial standpoint, Panarin has lived up to his price tag. He has provided elite production, consistency, and star power at a level that justifies his contract.

From a team-success standpoint, the verdict is a little murkier. While the Rangers have become playoff regulars and legitimate contenders, they have yet to capture the Stanley Cup during Panarin’s tenure. For some fans, true validation of the deal will only come if the team hoists the Cup while Panarin is still wearing blue.

Looking Ahead

With one season left on his contract after this one, the Rangers face crucial decisions. Do they begin preparing for life after Panarin, or do they look to extend him and keep their offensive anchor in New York into his mid-30s?

One thing is clear: regardless of what comes next, Panarin’s contract will be remembered as a turning point in Rangers history. It wasn’t just about money—it was about ambition, belief, and a commitment to bringing star power back to Broadway.

Six seasons in, the story of Artemi Panarin and the Rangers is still being written. But the truth, finally revealed, is that this blockbuster deal has delivered on its promise: Panarin has been worth every penny.