LA Kings Rely on Artemi Panarin to Guide Them Toward Playoff Success After NY Return
Kings’ Offense Boosted by Panarin’s Arrival
The Los Angeles Kings have significantly improved their offensive performance since acquiring Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers just before the NHL’s Olympic break in early February. Since his arrival, the team has averaged nearly half a goal per game more than prior to the trade, elevating them from their previous position as one of the league’s lowest-scoring teams.
Despite the boost in scoring, adapting to his new circumstances has presented challenges for Panarin. "I was thinking too much. I have trouble when I start thinking," he remarked, reflecting on the difficulties following his recent move.
This week, Panarin is set to play his first game back at Madison Square Garden, his home since 2019. The timing of the trade thrusts him directly into the playoff race in the Western Conference, a stark contrast to his previous standings in the Eastern Conference.
The Kings are counting on Panarin to focus on his game as they face the pressing need to qualify for the playoffs. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper expressed optimism, stating, "There’s a lot of excitement when you add a guy like that. The energy boosts into a team, and you feel like you have a chance to win every night." The players’ motivation appears to increase with Panarin’s presence on the ice.
In his first ten games with the Kings, Panarin recorded 12 points. Before his arrival, the Kings were just three points shy of the final wild card spot in the Western Conference and are now only one point behind after a recent loss at New Jersey.
The Kings’ offensive metrics have improved, scoring almost half a goal more per game with Panarin compared to without him. Recent changes within the coaching staff, including the firing of Jim Hiller and the promotion of D.J. Smith, have also contributed to a renewed sense of dynamism in their game strategy.
General Manager Ken Holland has strategically reshaped the roster ahead of the March 6 trade deadline. He dealt Corey Perry and Warren Foegele while bringing in forward Scott Laughton. Holland secured Panarin, the premier player available, for a conditional third-round pick and prospect Liam Greentree. Panarin’s contract extension, worth $22 million over two years, keeps him with the Kings until 2028.
Panarin has expressed his satisfaction with his new environment, stating, “I tried to be without expectations. I think it’s better than what I expected.” His excitement is palpable as he integrates into a team he believes is more talented than he initially anticipated.
While renowned for his offensive skills, the coaching staff is encouraging Panarin to exercise his creativity on the ice. Smith emphasized the importance of allowing Panarin the freedom to showcase his abilities, noting, “You’ve got to give him the freedom to do so. We need him to provide offense for us.”
Previously a standout player for the Rangers, Panarin led the team in scoring each season since joining on a seven-year, $81.5 million contract in 2019. However, with the Rangers facing playoff uncertainty, GM Chris Drury decided to focus on retooling the roster, leaving players like Panarin to seek opportunities elsewhere.
“They did not make any offer,” Panarin explained, indicating a lack of long-term commitment from the Rangers. This led him to Los Angeles, where he found a roster filled with talent and the salary cap flexibility to accommodate him. "Especially in my situation at 34, I should live a few years somewhere if I want it,” he said, highlighting his desire to embrace the next chapter of his career in Southern California.
As Panarin settles into his new role, both he and the Kings hope that his offensive prowess will propel the team back into playoff contention.
