Artemi Panarin’s time in New York appears to be nearing its end, and San Jose has emerged as a surprising but serious landing spot—one Panarin himself would be willing to commit to beyond this season.

The San Jose Sharks have reportedly made a decisive push to acquire Panarin, with sources indicating the star winger would entertain a multi-year extension if dealt to the Bay Area.

The mercurial New York Rangers forward, informed that his tenure in Manhattan will conclude after this season, was deliberately scratched this week as the club safeguards both his health and his trade value ahead of the March 6 deadline. Keeping him out of the lineup through the Olympic break underscores a stark reality: Panarin’s era in Madison Square Garden blue is effectively over.

Even at 34, Panarin remains among the NHL’s most dangerous offensive weapons. He has recorded 19 goals and 38 assists for 57 points in 52 games, blending elite scoring with high-end playmaking. Unlike a short-term rental whose impact expires after a few months, Panarin’s openness to an extension in San Jose presents an uncommon opportunity—a bona fide cornerstone forward with term, capable of reshaping a roster for years.

Still, any pursuit of Panarin comes with notable caveats. His off-ice history has drawn scrutiny. In 2024, Panarin and Madison Square Garden Sports reached financial settlements with a former Rangers employee who accused him of sexual assault during a road trip. The matter was resolved privately, without any admission of wrongdoing, and included nondisclosure agreements.

Any organization evaluating Panarin must weigh not only his undeniable on-ice impact, but also the potential distractions and cultural implications of his arrival. While Panarin is undeniably talented, acquiring him does carry the chance of alienating a part of the fanbase, particularly women, as well as the locker room. San Jose is understandably eager to make a legitimate push toward Stanley Cup contention after years near the bottom of the NHL standings. The question is whether that pursuit requires accepting the baggage Panarin would bring into the locker room.

Perhaps not. Panarin remains a high-risk, high-reward asset—one whose value is undeniable, but whose acquisition would come with complex strings attached.