New York Rangers: Is Artemi Panarin the best Russian player?

TORONTO, ONTARIO - AUGUST 03: Artemi Panarin #10 of the New York Rangers celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Carolina Hurricanes in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Qualification Round prior to the 2020 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena on August 3, 2020 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Andre Ringuette/Freestyle Photo/Getty Images) /

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Nikita Kucherov #86 of the Tampa Bay Lightning (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Nikita Kucherov

Nikita Kucherov is also widely known as one of the best players in hockey. He had 85 points in the regular season (33 goals, 52 assists), and he is producing in the playoffs well. Many think of him as a lefty version of Panarin, as they both have great puck handling and are liable to make highlight reel plays whenever they are on the ice.

Another thing that is comparable between the two is the Hart trophy. Both have been finalists, but the difference is that Kucherov has the edge, having won one in the 2018-19 season. While Kucherov was already a star, it was that season that he really made his mark, leading the league in assists and points.

Where Panarin has an edge is the defensive end. He plays much better end to end defense than Kucherov and has better distribution in front of his own net.

Overall, if someone had to start a franchise with Panarin or Kucherov, I’d say 50% would pick Panarin, maybe more after this season. But, watching the playoffs now, Kucherov is not a bad option.

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