The New York Rangers are expected to be one of the most talked-about teams this offseason, with potential major roster changes looming. As they continue their playoff push, speculation about key players being moved has gained traction.
A trade scenario generated by PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool suggests a massive four-player deal that would see the Rangers sending Artemi Panarin to the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for young talent and future assets.
Proposed Trade Details:
✅ Rangers Receive:
- Jack Quinn (F)
- JJ Peterka (F)
- 2025 First-Round Pick (Potentially a top-three selection)
✅ Sabres Receive:
- Artemi Panarin (with $5 million salary retained)
- Arthur Kaliyev (F)
- 2025 Fifth-Round Pick (Minnesota’s selection)
This proposed deal would mark a significant shift for the Rangers, who would part ways with one of their top scorers to acquire two promising young forwards and a valuable first-round pick.
Why This Trade is Significant
🔹 Panarin’s Impact: The star forward, with 31 goals and 44 assists (75 points in 69 games), has been a key piece of the Rangers’ offense. However, he has just one year left on his seven-year, $81.5 million contract.
🔹 Young Talent in Return: Quinn and Peterka, both restricted free agents this summer, have demonstrated strong offensive upside, with Peterka registering 22 goals and 32 assists (54 points in 64 games).
🔹 Rangers’ Cap Strategy: By retaining $5 million of Panarin’s contract for one season, the Rangers would gain financial flexibility while securing a future core piece in Peterka and a potential top-three draft pick.
Are More Big Moves Coming for the Rangers?
Speculation suggests that Panarin may not be the only high-profile player on the move. Rangers insider Peter Baugh (The Athletic) reported that the team is considering trading either Panarin or Mika Zibanejad to create cap space.
Additionally, Chris Kreider’s name has surfaced in trade rumors, with sources indicating that the Rangers explored moving him earlier in the season alongside former captain Jacob Trouba.
With the team sitting just one point out of a playoff spot (34-31-6), their decisions this offseason could shape the future of the franchise for years to come.
