Artemi Panarin: A Blackhawks Reunion?
One of the biggest potential unrestricted free agents the Chicago Blackhawks could pursue is New York Rangers star Artemi Panarin.
The 33-year-old winger is entering the final year of the seven-year, $81.5 million contract he signed in 2019.
Of course, Panarin’s story with Chicago began long before his New York success.
The Blackhawks originally signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2015, and he immediately made an impact by capturing the 2016 Calder Trophy.
But two years later, the team traded him to Columbus—a move that ultimately backfired as it failed to extend Chicago’s championship window.
Fast-forward to 2025, and Panarin could once again be on the move.
If the Rangers disappoint for a second straight season, management might decide to part ways with him in exchange for assets that would aid a retool or rebuild.
A hypothetical trade package could look like this:
Chicago receives:
• Artemi Panarin, F
• Taylor Raddysh, F
New York receives:
• 2026 first-round pick (originally Florida’s, acquired in the Seth Jones deal)
• 2027 second-round pick (either Chicago’s own or Vancouver’s)
• Ethan Del Mastro, D
The inclusion of Raddysh could help the Rangers clear cap space, potentially freeing room for a marquee signing such as Jack Eichel or Connor McDavid, while Chicago adds one of the league’s premier offensive weapons.
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Why Panarin Fits the Blackhawks’ Future
Back in 2017, the Blackhawks were clinging to the Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane era, while Panarin was still developing into an elite winger.
Today, the situation is very different: Chicago is rebuilding, and Panarin is an established superstar.
Artemi Panarin,
Adding him to a roster led by young centers Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar could instantly accelerate the team’s timeline.
Panarin wouldn’t just boost the offense—he could become the new face of the franchise as Chicago transitions into its next chapter.
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The Case for Extending Him
Acquiring Panarin via trade would also give the Blackhawks the chance to sign him to an eight-year extension under the current CBA.
That deal would run through his age-41 season, keeping him in Chicago for the long haul.
While the Blackhawks could wait until free agency, they currently have the draft capital and prospects to strike early.
Making such a move would send a clear message to the fan base: the rebuild is nearing its end, and Chicago is ready to contend again.
