Blackhawks Could Reunite with Artemi Panarin in Bold Trade Proposal
The Chicago Blackhawks may have a chance to reunite with former star Artemi Panarin, now with the New York Rangers. The 33-year-old winger is entering the final year of his seven-year, $81.5 million contract and could become a trade candidate if the Rangers underperform again this season. 
Panarin began his NHL career with the Blackhawks in 2015, signing as an undrafted free agent. He made an immediate impact, winning the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year in 2016. However, the Blackhawks traded him to Columbus just two seasons later—a move that backfired as it didn’t help extend their competitive window.
Fast-forward to 2025, and with Panarin potentially on the market, Chicago could be in a position to bring him back. If New York chooses to offload him for future assets, a trade proposal might look like this:
To Chicago: Artemi Panarin, Taylor Raddysh
To New York: 2026 first-round pick (via Florida), 2027 second-round pick (Chicago or Vancouver), defense prospect Ethan Del Mastro
The inclusion of Raddysh helps the Rangers clear cap space, potentially making room to pursue other stars like Jack Eichel or Connor McDavid. Adding Del Mastro gives New York a promising young piece in return.
A return to Chicago would look much different for Panarin this time. Back when he was traded, the Blackhawks were clinging to a fading era led by Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane. Now, they’re in the midst of a rebuild, with a promising young core that includes Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar. Panarin’s veteran presence and elite playmaking could accelerate the development of both.
Acquiring Panarin via trade would also allow Chicago to offer him an eight-year extension before he hits free agency, under current CBA rules. While he’d be 41 by the end of such a deal, Panarin is still playing at a high level and could help the team climb the Central Division standings.
Though the Blackhawks could wait until Panarin hits the open market, they currently have the assets and cap flexibility to make a move now. Trading for Panarin would not only strengthen the roster but also signal that Chicago is ready to move past the rebuild and start competing again.
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