Chicago Blackhawks: Panarin’s Contract Demands And What They Mean

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Oct 21, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Chicago Blackhawks left wing Artemi Panarin (72) during a stop in play against the Columbus Blue Jackets in the third period at Nationwide Arena. The Blue Jackets won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

What exactly does Artemi Panarin’s future contract mean now for the Chicago Blackhawks?

Just before the beginning of this season, our beloved Chicago Blackhawks’ brass and fanbase learned what it would potentially cost to keep young Russian phenomenon Artemi Panarin in Chi-Town.

It’s an unpleasant subject the forever cash-strapped ‘Hawks knew would have to be broached sooner or later, and now that it’s known the Bread Man wants $6 million a year for six years, things have predictably gotten interesting.

I for one am very curious to see how this situation plays out throughout the course of the 2016-17 campaign, and there are a few potential scenarios that can happen. While I’m no expert when it comes to the business side of hockey, here are some of my novice reactions and speculations.