New York Rangers holding Artemi Panarin out of tonight's game for 'roster management reasons'

"Artemi Panarin's time with the New York Rangers appears to be coming to an end sooner rather than later. Wednesday, multiple NHL insiders reported that Panarin won't play tonight against the New York Islanders due to "roster management reasons." He'll also sit out the remaining games headed into the Olympic break as Rangers GM Chris Drury protects his biggest trade asset until a deal materializes."

"The Rangers play four games total before the Olympic break. After tonight and tomorrow's home-and-home against the New York Islanders, the Rangers play the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday and the Carolina Hurricanes next Thursday. An NHL trade freeze will begin on Wednesday, February 4, at 3 pm and last through February 22 for the Olympic break. The Washington Capitals are reportedly one of the two front-runners to land Panarin."

Artemi Panarin has been benched by the New York Rangers for roster management as the team protects him while seeking a trade before the NHL trade freeze and deadline. He will miss the remaining four games before the Olympic break, including back-to-back games with the Islanders, a matchup with the Penguins, and a game against the Hurricanes. The Washington Capitals are reportedly among the leading suitors. Panarin holds a full no-trade clause and reportedly intends to sign an extension where he lands. The Rangers seek a Brock Nelson–style return. Panarin has 57 points (19 goals, 38 assists) in 52 games.

Read at RMNB