Overview
- Panarin was not included for the game against the Islanders, and the Rangers lost 5–2 in their first outing without him.
- Head coach Mike Sullivan praised Panarin as a top player and valued teammate, noting his absence affects the room and stressing the team will control what it can.
- Reporting indicates Panarin is expected to sit out the remaining games before the Olympic break as New York explores trade options.
- His contract is in its final season, and earlier reports indicated the club does not plan to offer a new deal.
- Panarin, 34, has 927 career points in 804 NHL games and has produced 57 points in 52 games this season.