Alexander "Panari" Panarin Returns to the Big Bash: Ovechkin’s Smash Sends Capitals Into a Tailspin!
Mar 5, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; LA Kings left wing Artemi Panarin (72) is recognized as the second star of the night after the game against the New York Islanders at Crypto. com Arena. NEW YORK – Artemi Panarin appeared relaxed as he spoke in the Los Angeles Kings dressing following his new team’s morning skate at Madison Square Garden.
Except this was no ordinary upcoming road game for the 34-year-old scoring machine, who joined the Kings in a trade with the Rangers just over six weeks ago. Panarin is perhaps the best free-agent signing in Rangers history in terms of pure production during his seven seasons in blue. Panarin scored 205 goals and had 607 points overall in 482 regular season games for the Rangers, including 49 goals and 120 points in 2023-24 when New York won the Presidents' Trophy for the league's best record.
Plus there was Panarin's electric Game 7 overtime goal against Pittsburgh in the 2022 playoffs, one of 12 postseason goals he scored as a Ranger. Now clad in the silver, black and white of the Kings, Panarin reflected on being back in New York for the first time as a visitor since he played for Columbus. His previous game with the opposition was Apr, 5, 2019 when Panarin scored the Blue Jackets’ first goal and then the shootout winner as Columbus clinched a playoff spot.
Three months later, he signed a seven-year, $81. 5 million contract with the Rangers. “I remember that,’’ he said with a smile.
“In my mind, I was already in New York. ” Panarin became a fan favorite at the Garden due to his friendly demeanor, scoring prowess and unique kicking goal celebrations. Many Ranger followers even brought giant loaves of foam bread to games in honor of Panarin’s nickname, “The Breadman.
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