When Artemi Panarin was traded [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-rangers/latest-news/artemi-panarin-traded-to-kings-ahead-of-roster-freeze] from the New York Rangers [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-rangers] to the Los Angeles Kings [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/los-angeles-kings], it officially removed one of the biggest names from the NHL trade market ahead of the deadline. For the Minnesota Wild [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/minnesota-wild], however, Panarin coming off the board doesn’t represent a missed opportunity. It only reinforces a reality that existed well before the deal was completed. Earlier this month, some reports suggested Minnesota could be a potential landing spot for the star winger. While the speculation gained traction externally, the Wild were never seriously involved. Panarin’s cap hit, the idea of an extension and the asset cost required to acquire him made a deal unrealistic for a team operating with limited flexibility and a clear long-term plan. Panarin’s move to Los Angeles now puts clarity to those rumors and allows the Wild to fully turn the page as the trade deadline approaches. Wild Expected To Pass On New York Rangers' Star Artemi Panarin [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/6f8d7006-fca2-4de1-8470-91093d93e155.png] Wild Expected To Pass On New York Rangers' Star Artemi Panarin The Minnesota Wild aren't pursuing a trade for star winger Artemi Panarin, squashing recent rumors and trade speculation. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/minnesota-wild/latest-news/wild-expected-to-pass-on-new-york-rangers-star-artemi-panarin] Despite the trade, Minnesota’s approach is unlikely to change. Rather than chasing headline names, the Wild have consistently prioritized fit, cost control and roster balance. Any potential additions would need to complement their existing core without compromising future flexibility or development plans. The plan is still the same. The Wild will be looking to target top-six scoring, specifically a center. That being said, the Wild said they were targeting a center and then traded for Hughes. So don't count anything out. For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free [https://thehockeynews.store/products/print-subscription?_gl=1*100me45*_ga*MTA5MzI2ODIxLjE3NjUzMjk0MDY.*_ga_ZET34ZFCGX*czE3NjkwMDM1NTMkbzE2MiRnMSR0MTc2OTAwNjQyNiRqNTYkbDAkaDA.]. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here [http://eepurl.com/i7OC4I]. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com. RECENT WILD STORIES Wild Stand Pat As Olympic Break And Trade Freeze Arrive [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/b3e5324e-880c-491c-aec5-298ab80a66be.jpeg] Wild Stand Pat As Olympic Break And Trade Freeze Arrive Riding a hot streak, the Wild face a roster freeze and Olympic break, pausing all trade possibilities until late February. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/minnesota-wild/latest-news/wild-stand-pat-as-olympic-break-and-trade-freeze-arrive] - From The Crease: Gustavsson On The 'Swagger' Quinn Hughes Has Brought. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/minnesota-wild/latest-news/from-the-crease-gustavsson-on-the-swagger-quinn-hughes-has-brought-to-the-wild] - Quinn Hughes Breaks Franchise Record In 18th Game. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/minnesota-wild/latest-news/newly-acquired-defenseman-quinn-hughes-breaks-franchise-record-in-18th-game] - Immediate Impact: Quinn Hughes' Start With The Wild Has Been Historically Fast. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/minnesota-wild/latest-news/immediate-impact-quinn-hughes-start-with-the-wild-has-been-historically-fast] - 'You Want To Get Out Of Your Zone': Why Quinn Hughes Changes The Game For The Wild. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/minnesota-wild/latest-news/you-want-to-get-out-of-your-zone-why-quinn-hughes-changes-the-game-for-the-wild] - 'We Want To Compete For The Stanley Cup': Why Bill Guerin Went All In. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/minnesota-wild/latest-news/we-want-to-compete-for-the-stanley-cup-why-bill-guerin-went-all-in-and-why-he-has-no-regrets]
