Rangers Could Replace One Russian Sniper with Another
The NY Rangers face a complicated situation with top-line winger Artemi Panarin. Panarin will be a free agent at the end of this season. His potential departure would leave a gaping hole in the team’s lineup.
If Panarin does leave, the Rangers would be in a tough spot, trying to find another top-line winger to take his place in the lineup.
But that’s where the Rangers could replace one Russian sniper with another. Specifically, that replacement could be Kirill Kaprizov. The Minnesota Wild are in a holding pattern with Kaprizov as they are unable to agree on a contract extension.
Some estimates place Kaprizov in the $15 million AAV range. Such a contract could be too rich for the Wild to afford, leading Kaprizov to test the free agent market.
Enter the Rangers. If the Rangers cannot re-sign Panarin, for whatever reason, the club could pursue Kaprizov. The allure of playing on Broadway could be too much for Kaprizov to pass up. Plus, the Rangers are a team loaded with talent. That’s why Kaprizov could be enticed to make up his mind and sign with the Rangers.
Of course, this line of thinking is contingent on Panarin departing from New York. But then again, there’s no guarantee that would be the case. But it is a possibility, and the Rangers must be prepared to handle any situation.
