LA Kings forward Artemi Panarin recently discussed Russia‘s ban from team sports at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, a decision made by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) due to Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Panarin expressed both understanding and disappointment over the ruling, emphasizing the impact on athletes who had long aspired to compete on the international stage.
During an interview with The New York Post, Panarin explained that many players he spoke with wished Russia could participate in the Olympic hockey tournament. He said,
“Obviously, I understand,” star Russian wing Artemi Panarin told The Post before the Rangers traded him to the Kings last week. “But also it’s pretty sad for athletes who play that sport all [their] life and then have dreams about that. For our side, it’s pretty sad, but we can’t control that. I hope people figure it out.”
He also mentioned the desire of fellow athletes to face off against Russia, stating,
“Especially when speaking with other guys who are going to play in the Olympics, they wish Russia is going to be there. My guess is probably 98 percent of the hockey players would love to play against us and they’re not thinking about anything else, just play hockey.”
The IOC’s current policy excludes Russia and Belarus from team events like men’s hockey at the upcoming Games. However, a limited number of athletes from these countries may compete in individual events under neutral status and strict conditions. As a result, top Russian NHL stars such as Nikita Kucherov, Kirill Kaprizov, Igor Shesterkin, Alex Ovechkin, and Panarin himself will neither represent Russia nor compete in Olympic hockey.
Details Behind Panarin’s Trade to the LA Kings
Artemi Panarin was traded from the New York Rangers to the LA Kings on February 4, just before the NHL’s freeze on Olympic rosters. In addition to the trade, Panarin signed a two-year contract extension worth $22 million, effective from the next season, with an annual average value of $11 million.
As part of the trade deal, the Rangers agreed to retain 50% of Panarin’s salary through the 2025-26 season, and the Kings sent prospect Liam Greentree along with conditional draft picks to the Blueshirts. Despite the trade, Panarin has yet to make his debut for the Kings since the move happened during the Olympic break. So far this season, he has tallied 57 points, consisting of 19 goals and 38 assists.
The Broader Implications of the IOC Ban on Russian Hockey
The exclusion of Russia from team competitions like men’s hockey carries significant consequences for the sport’s competitive landscape at the Winter Olympics. Several elite Russian players who regularly compete in the NHL are barred from participation, altering team rosters and eliminating potential high-profile matchups.
Panarin’s remarks shed light on the widespread frustration among athletes who view this ban as a loss for the sport itself, given the desire to compete regardless of political circumstances. The ongoing geopolitical tensions that triggered the IOC’s decision continue to create uncertainty for players, fans, and organizers alike.
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, hockey fans and stakeholders will watch closely to see how the absence of Russia affects tournament dynamics and whether the situation might evolve before the Games begin in Milan.
