Kings Acquire Star Forward Artemi Panarin

GM Ken Holland Discusses Trade Details and Expectations for Panarin's Arrival

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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In a blockbuster trade, the Los Angeles Kings have acquired star forward Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers. Kings GM Ken Holland met with the media to discuss the details of the trade, Panarin's excitement to join the team, and the Kings' plans to integrate the dynamic winger into their lineup.

Why it matters

The addition of Panarin, a perennial All-Star and one of the NHL's most talented offensive players, represents a major upgrade for the Kings as they look to make a deep playoff run. Panarin's scoring prowess could be the missing piece to help the Kings break through after several disappointing postseason exits in recent years.

The details

Holland said the trade came together quickly in the final hour before the deadline, with Panarin making it clear that Los Angeles was his top destination. The Kings will give Panarin time to get up to speed, with the plan for him to join the team for practice on February 18 rather than rushing him into game action this week. Holland noted the Kings will need to evaluate the best linemates and fit for Panarin as they look to maximize his impact.

  • The trade was completed on February 5, 2026.
  • Panarin will join the Kings for practice on February 18, 2026.

The players

Ken Holland

The General Manager of the Los Angeles Kings, who orchestrated the trade to acquire Artemi Panarin.

Artemi Panarin

A star forward who was traded from the New York Rangers to the Los Angeles Kings, bringing one of the NHL's most dynamic offensive players to the Kings' roster.

Chris Drury

The General Manager of the New York Rangers, who worked with Ken Holland to complete the trade sending Artemi Panarin to the Kings.

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What they’re saying

“Talking to Panarin, he's really excited to come to LA, I think this was his number-one destination, so you're getting a player motivated, that wants to come out here.”

— Ken Holland, General Manager, Los Angeles Kings (lakingsinsider.com)

“Once you get into the tournament, let's see what happens. Certainly, right now, there's going to be a real race and I'm hoping that the move we did today gives us a little bit of a boost to to make a push in the last 28 games.”

— Ken Holland, General Manager, Los Angeles Kings (lakingsinsider.com)

What’s next

Panarin will join the Kings for practice on February 18 as the team looks to integrate him into the lineup and determine the best fit for his skills. Holland indicated he will continue to work the phones during the Olympic break to potentially make additional moves to improve the roster.

The takeaway

The acquisition of Artemi Panarin represents a significant upgrade for the Kings as they look to make a deep playoff run. Panarin's scoring ability and desire to join the team in Los Angeles could be the missing piece to help the Kings break through after several disappointing postseasons. The move signals the Kings' intent to compete rather than rebuild, setting the stage for an exciting second half of the season.