One of the top upcoming unrestricted free agents (UFAs) the Chicago Blackhawks might pursue is New York Rangers forward Artemi Panarin. The 33-year-old winger is entering the final season of his seven-year, $81.5 million deal.
Panarin is no stranger to Chicago. The Blackhawks originally signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2015, a move that paid off immediately as he captured the Calder Trophy in 2016. However, the team’s decision to trade him just two seasons later to the Columbus Blue Jackets proved to be a major misstep, as it did little to prolong Chicago’s competitive window.
Now in 2025, Panarin is nearing free agency again. If the Rangers underperform for a second straight season, they might explore trading him to gain future assets and help initiate a retool or rebuild.
Proposed Trade Scenario:
Blackhawks receive:
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Artemi Panarin (F)
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Taylor Raddysh (F)
Rangers receive:
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2026 first-round pick (originally from Florida)
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2027 second-round pick (either Chicago’s or Vancouver’s)
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Ethan Del Mastro (D)
The first-round pick would be the one Chicago acquired from the Panthers in the Seth Jones trade. The second-rounder could vary depending on circumstances. Including Del Mastro, a promising defensive prospect, might be necessary to make the deal worthwhile for New York.
As for Raddysh, his inclusion could help the Rangers manage their cap situation—especially if they aim to pursue a marquee free agent like Jack Eichel or Connor McDavid.
Why Panarin Makes Sense for the Blackhawks
The situation has drastically changed since Panarin last wore a Blackhawks jersey. Back in 2017, the team was clinging to its championship core, led by Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews, while Panarin was still establishing himself. Now, the Blackhawks are focused on rebuilding around young talents like Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar, and Panarin is a proven NHL superstar.
Adding Panarin to the mix would provide a significant offensive boost and veteran leadership. He’d elevate Bedard or Nazar immediately and could become a central figure during this next chapter of Blackhawks hockey.
Chicago Would Need to Lock Him In Long-Term
Trading for Panarin would also allow the Blackhawks to offer him an eight-year extension, thanks to current CBA rules (valid until September 2026). Though such a deal would take him into his 40s, Panarin is still performing at an elite level and could help lift Chicago out of the Central Division’s basement.
While the Blackhawks could wait until free agency to make a move, they have the resources now to act. Acquiring Panarin would send a clear message: the rebuild is nearing its end, and Chicago is ready to compete again.
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