Sources: Artemi Panarin likely has played last Rangers game

"Artemi Panarin will not play for the New York Rangers on Wednesday night against the Islanders for "roster management" reasons, according to the team. However, sources told ESPN the Rangers are expected to sideline Panarin until the Olympic roster freeze -- and it's likely the winger has played his final game with the organization as it works to facilitate a trade."

"The Rangers announced earlier this month they are entering a retool after their disappointing first half of the season. The same day, general manager Chris Drury met with Panarin and told him the team would not be extending a new contract when the 34-year-old becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer. Panarin has a full no-movement clause, and the Rangers told the star winger they would work with him and his agent to facilitate a deal to a preferred destination."

Artemi Panarin will be sidelined and is expected to remain out of the lineup until the NHL Olympic roster freeze, with a likely trade in process. The New York Rangers have entered a retool after a disappointing first half and informed Panarin they will not offer a new contract when he becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer. Panarin holds a full no-movement clause and the Rangers will work with him and his agent to facilitate a preferred destination. The team may retain part of his $11.6 million salary but seeks a first-round pick and a top prospect or young roster player. The Rangers have begun roster changes, including trading Carson Soucy, and are fielding calls on Braden Schneider and Vincent Trocheck. The Olympic roster freeze runs Feb. 4 through Feb. 22.

Read at ESPN.com