William Liang-Imagn ImagesWhen it became clear in January that the New York Rangers intended to trade Artemi Panarin, he essentially went through a free-agent period.
Panarin’s full no-move clause essentially allowed him to dictate his preferred destination despite still being under contract with the Rangers.
For a variety of different reasons, Panarin pinpointed the Los Angeles Kings as the only destination he would accept a trade to, and the Rangers obliged by his request in February.
“I was not ready to pick a team where I didn’t want to go,” Panarin said in his introductory press conference with the Kings. “I probably (would have gone) to Russia if L.A. didn’t give me anything… I just want to play for these guys.”
Unbeknownst to the public until now, Panarin is very particular about jersey designs, which influenced a small part of his decision to accept a trade to the Kings and sign a two-year, $22 million contract extension.
“[The Kings’] jerseys are stunning,” Panarin said in the interview. “I really do care about the jerseys too. Like, there have been teams whose colors I’m just allergic to. I wouldn’t even consider them just because of that. I don’t know, I just have that hang-up.”
The 34-year-old forward recorded nine goals, 18 assists, and 27 points in 26 games to close out the 2025-26 season in Los Angeles.