Artemi Panarin Openly Admits That The Uncertainty Of His Future With Rangers Is Taking A Toll
Photo credit: Danny Wild
The New York Rangers are struggling with a 6-6-2 record this season. All the while, forward Artemi Panarin is wrestling with his own demons, which could be playing a part in their ongoing downfall.
Artemi Panarin has had a slow start to the year, scoring 7 points (2-5) in 14 games with the Rangers.
A contract extension was rejected, and a General Manager who hasn't revisited the situation has left a vacuum. It's filling the void with inner turmoil, as Panarin has openly admitted that his lack of a deal with the Rangers has caused his downturn.
Appearing freshly shaved (his head), Panarin was asked about his issues this year by NHL Insider Vince Mercogliano.
«I need to do more,» he told The Athletic following Thursday's practice. «That's about confidence, too. I've got to play with the puck more. I watch the games after, and it's really kind of snowballed. I missed training camp, had a couple (injury) issues. I wasn't feeling right from a conditioning standpoint in the first couple games. I started getting frustrated right away, and then it kind of goes into the contract and all that stuff in my head.»
Could this be the final year for Artemi Panarin in a New York Rangers uniform?
Panarin, an aging winger now 34, could be shown the door if the situation doesn't improve for both the Rangers and himself by April.
While Mike Sullivan believes he can turn his game around based on his own play, it's difficult to see light at the end of the tunnel, as the team goes through another unwitting down year in the NHL
Could the $11.642 million forward find a new home during free agency? His future doesn't look bright.
Previously on NY Rangers Insider
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