On Wednesday, the National Hockey League saw a significant development as superstar Artemi Panarin of Korkino, Russia, was traded from the New York Rangers to the Los Angeles Kings. This Panarin trade to Kings deal involved the Rangers receiving a conditional third-round draft pick in 2026 along with prospect Liam Greentree, according to TSN.
Details Behind the Trade Conditions
The terms of the trade include a condition that upgrades the Rangers’ draft pick to a second-round selection if the Kings advance past one playoff round in 2026. Additionally, the Rangers will receive a fourth-round draft pick in 2028 if the Kings proceed beyond two playoff rounds that year, making the deal potentially more valuable depending on the Kings’ success in upcoming seasons.
Panarin’s Contract Extension with the Kings
Artemi Panarin was entering the final year of his contract with New York and was expected to become an unrestricted free agent in July. Upon joining the Kings, he agreed to a two-year contract worth $22 million, securing his position with Los Angeles for the near future.
Anticipation and Build-up to the Trade
While the timing of the trade surprised some, the possibility of Panarin moving to the Kings had circulated for weeks, with other potential destinations including the Carolina Hurricanes and Washington Capitals. Notably, Panarin had not appeared in a Rangers game since January 26, as he was benched amidst growing trade talks. In that last game played for New York, Panarin assisted defenseman William Borgen of Moorhead, Minnesota, on a crucial game-tying goal with just over six minutes remaining, contributing to a 4-3 overtime win against the Boston Bruins.
Panarin’s NHL Career Path
Before joining the Kings, Panarin played two seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks, where he earned the rookie of the year title in 2015-16. He then spent two years with the Columbus Blue Jackets followed by seven seasons at the New York Rangers, including an All-Star appearance in the 2022-23 season. The Kings represent the fourth franchise in his NHL tenure.
Performance Highlights from the Current Season
During the 2025-26 NHL season, Panarin recorded 19 goals and 38 assists, totaling 57 points over 52 games. His other statistics include 14 penalty minutes, 17 power-play points, three game-winning goals, and 158 shots on goal, alongside defensive contributions such as 11 blocked shots and 15 takeaways. However, his plus-minus rating stood at -16, and he had 69 giveaways.
Profile of Prospect Liam Greentree
Liam Greentree, included in the trade to New York, is considered one of the Kings’ top prospects. Selected 26th overall in the first round of the 2024 NHL Draft, Greentree made a strong impact last season with the Windsor Spitfires in the Ontario Hockey League. He finished as the team’s second-highest scorer with 49 goals and 70 assists, accumulating 119 points overall.
Evaluating the Trade Outcome
Reactions to the trade suggest the Rangers may not have received sufficient value in return. Nevertheless, Greentree’s potential offers the Rangers a promising asset for the future. Based on current assessments, the trade is rated A- in favor of the Kings and B- for the Rangers, reflecting optimism about Los Angeles strengthening their lineup with Panarin’s addition.
