The idea may sound bold at first, but as the Montreal Canadiens continue their transition from rebuilding to legitimate contention, big names will inevitably start being linked to Montreal. One of those names could be Artemi Panarin. With uncertainty surrounding his future with the New York Rangers, the possibility of Panarin testing free agency this summer opens the door to an interesting, though complicated, discussion for the Habs.
Panarin Likely Headed to the Market
The New York Rangers are approaching a crossroads with Panarin. At 34 years old and in the final season of his contract, the Rangers will not be offering him an extension. While there is a strong chance Panarin will be moved at the trade deadline, he could reach unrestricted free agency this summer.
Panarin remains an elite offensive player, but his age, contract demands, and the Rangers’ evolving roster priorities make a long-term commitment risky from their perspective. That uncertainty naturally raises eyebrows around the league, including in Montreal.
The Gorton Connection
One of the most intriguing elements linking Panarin to the Canadiens is Jeff Gorton. Montreal’s executive vice president of hockey operations was the Rangers’ general manager when Panarin signed his massive free-agent deal in 2019. Gorton was instrumental in convincing Panarin to choose New York over several other suitors, a move that immediately changed the trajectory of the Rangers’ rebuild.
That prior relationship matters. Panarin trusted Gorton once before, and familiarity can go a long way in free agency. While circumstances are different now, Panarin is older, and Montreal is still shaping its identity; the connection is real and worth noting.
The Canadiens Have the Cap Space
From a purely financial standpoint, the Canadiens are one of the few teams that could realistically afford Panarin. Montreal is projected to have roughly $13 million in cap space this summer, with only a limited number of restricted free agents to re-sign. That flexibility gives general manager Kent Hughes and Gorton options.
Related: 3 Potential Trade Targets for the Canadiens
If needed, the Canadiens could also move out a contract to create even more room. Panarin, at 34, would likely be seeking one last major payday, probably a three or four-year deal with a significant average annual value. Montreal has the cap structure to make such an offer without immediately jeopardizing its long-term plans.
An Elite Offensive Weapon
There’s no debate about Panarin’s talent. He remains one of the most gifted playmakers in the NHL, with elite vision, creativity, and passing ability. Few players can control the pace of a game offensively the way Panarin does, and his ability to elevate linemates is well established.
For a Canadiens team that has leaned heavily on young talent and internal development, adding a player like Panarin would instantly raise the offensive ceiling. His presence could ease pressure on players like Cole Caufield, Nick Suzuki, and Ivan Demidov, while also providing elite experience in high-pressure situations.
Why the Fit Might Not Be Ideal
That said, this is where the conversation becomes complicated. Panarin will demand significant money on the wrong side of the 30s, and committing long-term dollars to an aging winger carries obvious risk. Montreal has been disciplined throughout its rebuild, avoiding contracts that could become anchors down the line.
There’s also the stylistic question. The Canadiens already lean toward a smaller, skill-based roster. Adding Panarin would mean bringing in another undersized forward, which may not align perfectly with the organization’s desire to become harder to play against, especially in the playoffs.
While Panarin’s talent is undeniable, roster balance matters. The Canadiens still need size, physicality, and defensive reliability up front. Investing heavily in Panarin could limit flexibility to address those areas.
In the end, the Canadiens would be wise to at least explore the Panarin option. The combination of cap space, organizational connections, and the team’s improving competitive window makes the conversation legitimate.Â
Panarin would bring elite skill and star power to Montreal, but the cost, financially and structurally, may outweigh the benefits. If the price and term align, the Habs should consider it. If not, patience may remain their greatest asset.
