Avalanche divisional rival eyeing blockbuster reunion with star forward in latest trade proposal
Photo credit: Dennis Schneidler / USA TODAY Sports
Divisional rival Chicago Blackhawks are reportedly exploring a blockbuster trade to reunite with star forward Artemi Panarin, a move that could shake up the NHL and directly impact the Colorado Avalanche in the Central Division race.
Among the most notable upcoming unrestricted free agents, the Blackhawks could set their sights on the Rangers' superstar forward.
Blackhawks exploring shocking reunion with Artemi Panarin.
Nestor Quixtan from Heavy.com writes that as one of the NHL's most coveted upcoming unrestricted free agents, Panarin has emerged as a top target for the Blackhawks, who could be looking to make a splash in the offseason.
"But once upon a time, Artemi Panarin was a member of the Chicago Blackhawks. The club signed Panarin as an undrafted player in 2015. The move immediately paid dividends as he won the 2016 Calder Trophy.
The next move was a disaster for the Blackhawks. The club traded Panarin to the Columbus Blue Jackets after two seasons in a trade that failed to extend the Blackhawks' window of contention." -Quixtan
The next move was a disaster for the Blackhawks. The club traded Panarin to the Columbus Blue Jackets after two seasons in a trade that failed to extend the Blackhawks' window of contention." -Quixtan
Fast-forward to 2025, and Panarin is approaching unrestricted free agency. If the Rangers stumble for a second consecutive season, the team might feel forced to part ways with him, looking to recoup assets to aid in a rebuild or retooling process.
The proposed trade would see the Blackhawks acquire Panarin and forward Taylor Raddysh in exchange for a 2026 first-round draft pick, a 2027 second-round draft pick, and defenseman Ethan Del Mastro.
"The Blackhawks are a rebuilding team, and Panarin is a superstar. Panarin's addition would be a huge boost to a young Chicago core featuring young centers in Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar. Panarin would instantly elevate Bedard or Nazar.
Panarin could finally become the face of the Chicago Blackhawks for the remainder of his career. It would be a fitting way to usher in the next phase of Panarin's career." -Quixtan
Panarin could finally become the face of the Chicago Blackhawks for the remainder of his career. It would be a fitting way to usher in the next phase of Panarin's career." -Quixtan
While the Blackhawks could wait for Panarin to hit free agency, the team currently has assets to spend. Making a trade now would not only strengthen the roster but also a clear message to fans that the rebuild is officially over.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 30 | 24 ANSWERS Avalanche divisional rival eyeing blockbuster reunion with star forward in latest trade proposal Do you think Panarin will get traded before his contract is up at the end of next NHL season? | ||
| yes | 17 | 70.8 % |
| no | 7 | 29.2 % |
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