The Blackhawks have the chance to reunite with a former star

The New York Rangers have informed Artemi Panarin that they are not considering re-signing him past this season and will look for a trade before the March 6th trade deadline. This has sparked a major conversation within the NHL bout which team is going win the Panarin sweepstakes? Could the Blackhawks attempt to reunite Panarin in Chicago? Many believe they should, and here is why.

Panarin's first tenure with the Blackhawks

Panarin's first stint with the Blackhawks went better than many had expected. In his rookie season, Panarin nearly produced a point-per-game season, notching 77 points in 80 games. The "Breadman's" second season saw similar success, producing 74 points in a full 82-game season. Many Blackhawks fans saw Panarin as the next face of the franchise, becoming a building block on a stacked squad. This, however, did not last much longer, as he was later dealt to the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he played a pivotal role in their rebuild. Panarin then later left Columbus and signed a massive deal with the Rangers. After the previous seven seasons and little to no success during the past two seasons, the Rangers have decided to move on from their superstar forward.

A reunion in Chicago can become more likely than many expect. While a trade at the deadline would seem unlikely at this point, the Blackhawks will have a chance to sign him in free agency. The only way Kyle Davidson makes this kind of deal is if the trade comes with an extension. The Blackhawks have the resources and cap space to make this deal a reality.

The Blackhawks have the resources and cap space to make this deal a reality. Panarin would add some much-needed firepower to a young Blackhawk team. This would make them instantly a deeper, more competitive team. Chicago may not turn into a playoff team this season, as they currently sit in last place in the NHL with just under half of their season remaining. Heading into next season with the right moves can make them a team vying for a playoff spot. If Panarin signs with the Hawks long-term, he would help them reach the cap floor for next season as well.

Adding talent, to a talented forward core

Panarin would add some much-needed firepower to a young Blackhawk team. Connor Bedard would be a player who sees the biggest impact. Throughout the early part of his young career, Bedard has had little help and has still produced great numbers for a player his age. He was on pace for an over-100-point season, but a shoulder injury slowed down his production. Bedard with Panarin would become a far more dynamic player who could be recognized as a top-three player in the years to come. Panarin would add veteran leadership to a very young Blackhawks team. He would be able to mentor their young forwards, such as Oliver Moore, Nick Lardis, and Frank Nazar.

What Panarin adds could help bring playoff hockey back in Chicago for years to come. It will be interesting to see the direction the Rangers may go as we get closer to the trade deadline. He would be the missing piece to a rebuilding Blackhawks team looking to take strides in their development.