Two-time Olympic champion Alexander Kozhevnikov weighs in on Artemy Panarin, suggesting that the New York Rangers forward holds the position of the second strongest Russian talent currently playing in the NHL. He notes that Alexander Ovechkin remains the top Russian player in the league, yet Panarin stands out as the next standout star. Kozhevnikov describes Panarin as technically gifted and exceptionally skilled, emphasizing that Panarin is not just a contributor but the driving force and face of the Rangers. His presence on the ice appears to shape the team’s performance, and without Panarin, the Rangers would look markedly different in both style and success.
Alexander Ovechkin, now 37, continues to pile up impressive numbers. This season he has notched 32 goals and 22 assists across 54 games, maintaining a storied career that places him among the all-time greats of the game. With 812 career goals to date, Ovechkin remains the second-highest scorer in NHL history, a milestone that underscores his enduring impact and longevity in the league.
In the 2022/23 regular season, Panarin appeared in 56 games, delivering 18 goals and 47 assists. On February 12, he added an assist, continuing to contribute to the Rangers’ offensive depth. The league recognized Panarin for his exceptional play, naming him the first star of the week in a display of his continued high-level performance and influence within the team’s strategic setup.
Earlier reports indicated that Dmitry Voronkov, the forward from Ak Bars Kazan, was set to extend his professional hockey career in the NHL. This development added further anticipation about the influx of talented Russian players into North American hockey, reflecting ongoing movement and growth within the sport’s international landscape.