Artemi Panarin explains why he wanted to join the Los Angeles Kings so badly, leaving behind over $30 million in the process. New York Rangers defenseman, and ex-King Vladislav Gavrikov, played a part in helping Panarin decide.
Artemi Panarin spoke for the first time as the newest member of the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday.
During his virtual presser, Panarin explained the process and why he left money on the table to join Los Angeles.
"I just want to play with the guys, regardless of the short-term deal, which wasn't what I was looking for, but I wanted to play for L.A.," Panarin told reporters.
Following the Kings' acquisition of Panarin in Wednesday's trade, the details of other teams that were looking to acquire him came to fruition.
Elliotte Friedman reported that the Seattle Kraken had made a big offer for the Russian superstar that was ultimately turned down. In addition to a trade, Kraken GM Jason Botterill offered Panarin a four-year contract worth more than $14 million per season.
Panarin ended up settling for a two-year deal that will pay him $11 million per year, beginning next season.
In total, the 34-year-old left winger left well over $30 million on the table because of how badly he wanted to join the Kings.
Furthermore, Panarin said he spoke to his former teammate with the New York Rangers, and former defenseman of the Kings, Vladislav Gavrikov. Panarin shared that Gavrikov spoke highly of the organization.
Vladislav Gavrikov and Artemi Panarin (Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images)"Great teammates, great organization, great place to live," Panarin said of Los Angeles, with the endorsement of Gavrikov.
"I never wanted to go anywhere else. "If (Kings GM Ken Holland) knew that, he probably would have given me $5 million," Panarin laughed.
Later in the conference, the star also explained why signing an extension with whatever team would acquire him was so important.
"I don’t like to switch teams back and forth," he told reporters. "I played already with three teams in the NHL. I have two kids, a dog, a wife… It’s just too much stuff. And also, I feel like I don’t want to be rented for a couple months, then go somewhere else. I’m just looking for a team who wants me."
Panarin has played for the Chicago Blackhawks, Columbus Blue Jackets, and the Rangers across 11 years in the NHL.
This season, he played 52 games for the Rangers, scoring 19 goals and 57 points. With his elite offensive ability, many are hoping he can bring a scoring boost to the Kings' lineup.
For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.