Kings Land Star Forward Artemi Panarin in Blockbuster Trade Before Olympic Freeze

The Los Angeles Kings pulled off one of the most dramatic trades in recent NHL history, acquiring superstar forward Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers in a deal finalized just seconds before the 3 p.m. ET Olympic roster freeze on Wednesday. The blockbuster move sees the Kings send top prospect Liam Greentree along with conditional third-round and fourth-round draft picks to New York in exchange for the 34-year-old playmaker.

The trade becomes even more significant with the contract extension Panarin signed immediately after the deal. The veteran forward inked a two-year, $22 million contract with Los Angeles, carrying an $11 million average annual value that begins next season. As part of the agreement, the Rangers will retain 50% of Panarin's current $11.6 million salary, providing crucial cap relief for both teams navigating the tight financial constraints of the modern NHL.

Panarin's departure from New York was not entirely unexpected, as Rangers general manager Chris Drury had been transparent about the team's plans for a roster retool since mid-January. The organization held Panarin out of the past three games specifically for roster management purposes leading up to the Olympic break. Despite the somewhat anticipated nature of the move, the timing and destination created significant buzz around the league as multiple contenders including Carolina, Tampa Bay, and Washington had been circling the star forward.

The Russian winger's impact on the Rangers franchise cannot be overstated. Since joining New York, Panarin served as the team's leading scorer every season and ranks ninth in franchise history with 607 points, consisting of 205 goals and 402 assists. This season alone, he has compiled 57 points with 19 goals and 38 assists across 52 games, maintaining his elite production despite the uncertainty surrounding his future. His ability to create offense and elevate linemates has made him one of the most dangerous forwards in the league over the past half-decade.

For the Kings, the acquisition represents a clear win-now move as they position themselves for a deep playoff run. Los Angeles adds an elite playmaker who can immediately slot into their top six and provide the offensive firepower needed to compete with the Western Conference's best. The team's willingness to part with Greentree, considered one of their top prospects, signals the organization's belief that their championship window is open. Panarin told the Rangers that Los Angeles was specifically where he wanted to go, exercising the no-movement clause in his contract to ensure the destination fit his preferences.

The Olympic break now provides both teams an opportunity to regroup and prepare for their new realities. The Rangers embark on a youth-focused retool, while the Kings return from Italy with a legitimate superstar addition who could be the final piece in their quest for another Stanley Cup. NHL play resumes February 25 with an eight-game slate, at which point Panarin will make his Kings debut in what promises to be one of the most anticipated regular season games of the year.