Artemi Panarin’s move to the Los Angeles Kings has already produced one of the most heartwarming stories of the NHL season. Fresh off a blockbuster trade from the New York Rangers, the star winger settled a unique jersey number dispute by gifting the team’s mascot, Bailey, a luxury Rolex watch. This “trade” allows Panarin to don his familiar no. 72 on the ice while Bailey keeps the number in the stands. [1] [2]
The gesture highlights Panarin’s easygoing personality and fits perfectly into the Kings’ Hollywood flair. Fans have embraced the moment, with the team’s official X post captioned “Our 72s 🖤” going viral. [3]
The Rangers-Kings trade shakes up the deadline landscape
The deal sending Panarin to Los Angeles closed on February 4, 2026, right as the NHL’s Olympic roster freeze began, running through February 22. The Kings acquired the 34-year-old forward from the Rangers in exchange for prospect Liam Greentree, a conditional third-round pick in 2026, and a conditional fourth-rounder in 2028. [4] Los Angeles immediately signed him to a two-year extension at $11 million AAV, through the 2027-28 season, with the Rangers retaining 50% of his salary for a $5.8 million cap hit this year.
This move came amid the Rangers’ retooling efforts, as they had benched Panarin for three games to protect him from injury during final negotiations. For our full breakdown of the trade’s implications before the Olympic break, check out Rangers trade Artemi Panarin to Kings before Olympic roster freeze.
Panarin, ineligible for the Olympics due to Russia’s IIHF ban, used the break to integrate with his new squad. The conditional picks upgrade based on playoff success: a Kings series win turns the 2026 third into a second-rounder, and two wins add the extra fourth.
Kings GM Rob Blake aimed to boost scoring, pairing Panarin with Anze Kopitar and Adrian Kempe. Early speculation linked Panarin to other teams, as covered in our piece on Artemi Panarin likely played his last game for the New York Rangers.
The trade reflects broader deadline trends, with LA positioning for a deep Pacific Division run.
Why no. 72? Panarin’s history and Bailey’s tradition
Panarin first wore no. 72 during his rookie days with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2015-16, where he tallied 77 points and won the Calder Trophy. He stuck with it through stints in Columbus and New York, amassing over 800 points in 600-plus games. [2]
Upon arriving in LA, he requested the same number, only to find it claimed by Bailey the lion. The mascot adopted 72 years ago because “it’s always 72 degrees in Los Angeles,” a nod to the city’s mild weather. [3]
Rather than force a change, Panarin opted for diplomacy. The duo posed for photos, with Bailey sporting the new Rolex—cemented by the Kings’ X post on February 25.
This isn’t unprecedented; players often buy out numbers from teammates. But negotiating with a mascot adds whimsy.
Bailey retains 72 for fan interactions, ensuring no on-ice overlap with Panarin.
Fan reactions light up social media
The story exploded online, with Reddit’s r/losangeleskings buzzing about the “deal.” [5] Bleacher Report highlighted the photos, calling it a “win-win.” [6]
Instagram and TikTok reels from accounts like @crashthebluepaint racked up thousands of likes, praising Panarin’s class. [7]
Kings fans see it as a morale boost post-trade.
Veteran observers compare it to past quirks, like mascots with signature numbers.
Panarin’s expected impact on the Kings’ playoff push
With Panarin’s arrival, LA eyes a Pacific crown. His playmaking complements the team’s defense-first style.
Post-Olympics, expect debut synergy with Kopitar’s line.
Career stats underscore his value:
- 821 points in 614 games (pre-trade)
- 30+ goals in six straight seasons
- Two 40-goal campaigns
The Rolex “trade” symbolizes smooth integration.
As detailed in ESPN’s coverage, conditions favor LA’s aggression. [4]
This lighthearted start bodes well for a contender.
Panarin’s Hollywood chapter promises thrills, blending elite skill with mascot magic. Kings fans can look forward to no. 72 lighting the lamp—and Bailey roaring from the stands. With the Olympic break ending soon, Panarin’s debut could spark a surge toward the playoffs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.