Despite all reports that he will not resign with the team, TSN’s Pierre Lebrun reported the Blue Jackets offered the 2016 Calder Trophy winner an eight-year contract with an AAV of $12 million. The contract would give Panarin the second highest AAV in the NHL behind only Connor McDavid.
Panarin posted a career-high 87 points (28-59–87) and a plus-14 rating in 79 games this season along with 11 points (5-6–11) in 10 playoff games.
NHL free agency rumors 2019: Live updates, news on signings, trades and more
The Athletic’s George Richards reported Panarin is likely on his way to the Florida Panthers along with Columbus teammate and two-time Vezina Trophy winner Sergei Bobrovsky. However, with over $28 million to spend on free agents, the Blue Jackets could marginally outbid the Panthers, who only have $25 million in cap space. While the difference is likely not enough to change their minds, Columbus is clearly prepared to spend the necessary money to remain a contender in the NHL.
